Two dead after plane crashed during flight experience

Here is the latest breaking news from around the world: Two dead after plane crashed during flight experienceImage source, Stuart Woodward/BBCImage caption, Police were alerted to the crash in High Ongar at 12:30 BST on TuesdayByLewis Adamsin High OngarPublished1 July 2026, 11:54 BSTUpdated 3 minutes agoTwo people died during a flight experience when their light aircraft crashed in a field, police have said. The two-seat Cessna plane came down off Mill Lane in High Ongar, Essex, at about 12:30 BST on Tuesday. It had set off from North Weald Airfield on "what was expected to be a short journey," Det Ch Supt Morgan Cronin said.

The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) described it as an "accident" and said its inspectors' inquiries were ongoing. At a press conference in High Ongar, Cronin said the victims were yet to be formally identified. "This is likely to be a complex process and one we will approach sensitively and compassionately," he told reporters.

The Details

Image source, Stuart Woodward/BBCImage caption, Air accident investigators were at the field on TuesdayPolice were called by members of the public who witnessed the plane crash into the field. Their inquiries continued throughout Tuesday night and investigators remained at the scene on Wednesday. Cronin said: "The two-seat Cessna aircraft was carrying out a short flying experience flight but, sadly, it did not return.

"He pledged to treat the victims' families with "dignity and respect" while working to give them answers.

The development has drawn wide international attention, with diplomatic circles watching closely.