Multiple Eyewitnesses Describe a “Fireball” at the Scene
The incident involving the Zeusch Aviation plane that crashed shortly after take-off at London Southend Airport has left many questions about safety measures in the air. According to eyewitnesses, the plane appeared to be a “fireball” following the impact, which was so severe that the airport was shut down. While the British media reported that there were no casualties reported, images shared on social media showed dark smoke and a plume of fire emanating from the crash site.
“I was watching the plane take off from my position near the runway, and I saw it start to smoke,” said one eyewitness. “I couldn’t believe my eyes when it suddenly caught fire.”
Background of the Aircraft Involved
The aircraft involved in the crash was a Beechcraft B200 Super King Air, a turboprop aircraft equipped with medical systems for transporting patients. It had a wingspan of 57 feet 11 inches, a length of 43 feet 10 inches, and a height of 15 feet 0 inches. This aircraft was designed for short-haul charter flights, carrying light freight, and air ambulances for medical evacuation.
- Built with Turboprop Engines:
- The Beechcraft B200 Super King Air was powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-52 engines, each producing 850 shaft horsepower.
- Long-Range Capabilities:
- The aircraft had a range of 1,720 nautical miles and a top cruise speed of 310 knots (570 km/h).
- A luxury interior, available in leather, offering eight-seat comfort for passengers.
- An improved autothrottle and Multi-Scan weather radar, introduced in the Model 200 series in December 2020.
- A Modern Air Ambulance:
- The Model 200 series was originally marketed as the “Super King Air” family by Beechcraft.
- Long-Range Varieties:
- Three models: King Air 360ER, King Air 360, and King Air 260.
A Look at the Features of the Beechcraft B200 Super King Air
Specifications and Cost of the Beechcraft B200 Super King Air
| Specs | Description |
|---|---|
| Wingspan | 57 feet 11 inches (17.65 meters) |
| Length | 43 feet 10 inches (13.36 meters) |
| Height | 15 feet 0 inches (4.57 meters) |
| Max Take-Off Weight | 12,500 pounds (5,670 kg) |
| Operating Weight | 8,830 pounds (4,005 kg) |
| Useful Load | 3,760 pounds (1,706 kg) |
| Powerplant | Two Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-52 engines |
| Take-Off Distance | 2,111 feet (643 meters) |
| Maximum Altitude | 35,000 feet (10,668 meters) |
| Equipped Price | $7.78 million |
The aircraft was due to return to Lelystad, Netherlands, on the evening of Sunday after landing in Pula, Croatia. All flights to and from London Southend Airport were cancelled until further notice, while police, emergency services, and air investigators worked at the scene. The incident highlighted the importance of safety measures in the air. With the lack of information on any casualties, it is clear that the investigation will be crucial in determining the cause of the crash.
