Two killed in Essex plane crash during 'short flight experience'

Two people have lost their lives after a light aircraft conducting a short flight experience plummeted into a field off Mill Lane, Ongar in Essex on Tuesday. The two-seat Cessna had departed from North Weald airfield, approximately seven miles away, according to Essex Police.

Both occupants of the aircraft, who are yet to be formally identified, were pronounced dead at the scene. Members of the public contacted emergency services at 12:30pm on Tuesday to report that a small aircraft had crashed in the field.

Detective Chief Superintendent Morgan Cronin of Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate said the 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 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. Their families will be supported and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time," Cronin stated.

"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 has continued overnight with detectives and forensic teams working at the scene in parallel with the Air Accident Investigations Branch. Officers are also working alongside the fire service, the airfield and Epping Forest District Council to build an accurate picture of events.

"We are also speaking to those who called emergency services and who witnessed what may have been a distressing incident," Cronin said. Officers will remain at the scene conducting enquiries over the coming days.

Police are appealing for any witnesses or those with footage to contact them by calling 101 or by submitting a report online.