FIVE people escaped uninjured from an aircraft after it crashed on the runway.

The East of England Ambulance Service were alerted to Southend Airport at 1.05pm.

Two ambulances, an area manager and a hazardous area response team were sent to the scene alongside nine fire engines from across the county.

The five casualties were not trapped and had been released when crews arrived at the scene.

Ambulance spokesman Gary Sanderson said: “The initial 999 call we received stated a plane had crashed on the runway. Two adults and three children were assessed by ambulance staff and all five were uninjured and did not require hospital treatment.”

Assistant Divisional Officer Martyn Hodder, Southend Station Commander, said: “Two adults and three children were travelling on the aircraft. They were shaken and not hurt but checked over by Ambulance teams.

“It looks like the aircraft under carriage collapsed on landing. The Airport fire crews did an excellent job and laid out a foam blanket on the runway so that the plane could land safely.

“ECFRS were called in as a precaution to support them if it was needed.”