Small plane crashes at London Southend Airport

Emergency services rushed to London Southend Airport on Sunday afternoon following the crash of a small aircraft, prompting evacuations and flight cancellations.

The airport confirmed via social media that a “serious incident” had occurred involving a general aviation aircraft. Essex Police said they were alerted just before 4 p.m. local time and are working closely with emergency responders at the scene. The crash site is approximately 45 miles (72 kilometers) east of central London.

Images shared on social media show thick black smoke and flames rising from the wreckage. The aircraft involved is reported to be approximately 12 meters (39 feet) in length. Authorities have not yet released information on the number of people on board or the aircraft’s intended destination.

In response to the crash, police evacuated a nearby golf club and rugby club as a precaution. David Burton-Sampson, the local Member of Parliament, urged the public to avoid the area and allow emergency services to operate without obstruction. “My thoughts are with everyone involved,” he said in a statement.

According to the airport’s website, at least four flights scheduled for departure on Sunday afternoon were cancelled.

Authorities say emergency operations will continue for several hours. No cause for the crash has been announced.