Plane Crash at Local Airport
By Sue Horncastle
On the 8th October 1974 a Belgian DC6B aircraft crashed on take off at Southend Airport. The airliner was carrying passengers back to Antwerp from a shopping trip.
All the 105 passengers and crew aboard had a very lucky escape when the plane skidded to a halt right at the end of the runway after the nose wheel collapsed.
Fire and rescue crews rushed to the scene just 30 feet from the perimeter fence and 100 yards from the ancient church of St. Lawrence in Eastwoodbury Lane. The plane and surrounding area were soon covered in foam to prevent a horrific explosion.
All aboard were shepherded to safety after what must have been a terrifying experience.
(If any readers have further information about this event please do get in touch, we would be very pleased to hear from you.)