Southend Airport Plane Crash Leaves All Flights Cancelled: What Can Affected Travellers Do?

A tragic crash at London Southend Airport on Sunday afternoon has left four people dead and all flights cancelled as investigators work to figure out what went wrong.

Essex Police confirmed the aircraft involved was a Beechcraft B200 Super King Air, operated by Dutch company Zeusch Aviation. It had earlier flown from Athens to Pula, Croatia, and was heading to Lelystad in the Netherlands when it crashed shortly after takeoff, around 4:00 p.m. on 13 July.

Early reports suggest the plane veered sharply to the left before going into a dive and bursting into flames near the edge of the runway. All four people on board, including two pilots and two passengers, died in the crash.

The UK's Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has sent a team of specialists to the scene to examine flight data, aircraft systems, and possible human factors.

Flights Grounded, Airport Closed

All scheduled flights to and from Southend have been cancelled for now. Travellers are being advised to check directly with their airlines about refunds or rebooking.

'We're working closely with the emergency services and the AAIB,' the airport said in a statement. 'Flights will restart as soon as it's safe to do so.'

Several EasyJet flights set for Monday were among those cancelled, and some passengers have been redirected to other airports such as London Gatwick.

If Your Flight Was Cancelled, Here's What You Can Do

Travellers affected by cancellations should take the following steps:

• Contact your airline. You're entitled to a full refund or an alternative flight if your trip was cancelled with short notice.
• Ask for support. Airlines must offer food, accommodation, and transport where necessary.
• Keep receipts. You may be able to claim back expenses like taxis or hotels.
• Check your insurance. Travel insurance may cover missed connections or other related losses.
• Complain if needed. If the airline isn't helping, you can escalate to the Civil Aviation Authority or an approved dispute body.

The CAA notes that compensation under Regulation UK261 might not apply in this case, since the crash could qualify as an 'extraordinary circumstance'. Still, airlines are required to provide care and support.

Investigation Underway

Zeusch Aviation confirmed that one of its planes was involved and said it is cooperating fully with the investigation.

'We are supporting the inquiry and will share updates as we learn more,' the company said. 'Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragedy.'

Emergency services responded quickly, with multiple ambulances, fire engines, and specialist teams rushing to the crash site. Videos and photos posted online showed thick smoke and flames. Some witnesses described seeing a 'huge fireball'.

Essex Police plan to hold a press briefing at 3:00 p.m. today at the airport, where they are expected to release more details, including the names of the victims.

The AAIB will release a preliminary report in the coming weeks. A full investigation will follow.

This story is developing and more information will be shared as it becomes available.