Twin-engine turboprop crashes into flames after takeoff at London Southend Airport

A Beechcraft B200 Super King Air aircraft crashed and burst into flames shortly after taking off from London Southend Airport on July 13, sending thick black smoke into the sky and forcing the suspension of all airport operations.

Operated by Zeusch Aviation, the aircraft was en route to Lelystad, Netherlands, when it lost control moments after departure and crashed near the runway.

Emergency services responded swiftly to what authorities declared a “serious incident,” though the exact number of people onboard and their condition remains unconfirmed.

At approximately 4:00 PM local time, the 12-meter twin turboprop crashed just moments after taking off from London Southend Airport.

Eyewitnesses reported the aircraft banking sharply to the left, briefly inverting mid‑air, before descending nose-first into the runway edge and erupting into a massive fireball enveloped in thick black smoke visible across the airport perimeter.

Some observers said pilots waved to onlookers just before the aircraft went down.

Zeusch Aviation confirmed that flight SUZ1 was involved in an accident, and stated it is fully cooperating with authorities. The aircraft had earlier flown from Athens to Pula, and then to Southend—which was its last leg toward Lelystad.

The airport declared a “serious incident,” immediately suspending operations and grounding all flights. At least five international departures were canceled, and nearby facilities like Rochford Hundred Golf Club and the Westcliff Rugby Club were evacuated as a precaution.

Emergency services—including Essex Police, Essex County Fire & Rescue, and the East of England Ambulance Service—responded swiftly with multiple units, including fire crews, paramedic vehicles, and air ambulance support.

Authorities set up a public hotline and urged people to avoid the area while investigations continue.

The tail number PH‑ZAZ confirms the plane’s identity, and flight tracking data from Flightradar24 logged the rapid ascent followed by failure just seconds after takeoff.

No confirmation has yet been issued on the number of crew or passengers aboard, nor on potential casualties.

Investigators from the Air Accidents Investigation Branch have taken charge of the scene. The investigation is in its early stages, with no immediate cause reported. Zeusch Aviation has extended condolences to all affected and vowed transparency as more details emerge .