Two dead after plane crash in Essex during 'short flight experience'

Two people have died after a light aircraft undertaking a short flight experience crashed into a field in Essex on Tuesday. The two-seater Cessna came down in a field off Mill Lane Ongar after taking off from North Weald airfield approximately seven miles away, Essex Police confirmed.

Both occupants of the aircraft, whose identities have not yet been formally confirmed, were declared dead at the scene. Police were first contacted at 12:30pm on Tuesday when members of the public reported a small aircraft had crashed in the field.

Detective Chief Superintendent Morgan Cronin of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate said the small aircraft took off from North Weald airfield on what was expected to be a short journey. "The two-seat Cessna aircraft was carrying out a short flight experience but sadly it did not return," he said.

Formal identification of those who died has yet to take place. "Due to the nature of the incident this is likely to be a complex process and one which we will approach sensitively and compassionately," DCS Cronin continued. "Their families will be supported and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time."

"Our focus is to establish what happened and give the families the answers they need while ensuring they are treated with dignity and respect," he added.

The investigation continued overnight with detectives and forensic teams working at the scene in parallel with the Air Accidents Investigation Branch. Officers were working alongside the fire service, the airfield and Epping Forest District Council to build an accurate picture of what happened.

Police are speaking to those who called emergency services and who witnessed the incident. Officers remained at the scene carrying out enquiries over the coming days.

Police appealed for any witnesses or those with footage to contact them by dialling 101 or by submitting a report online.