Norwich Airport was forced to close this morning after a light aircraft caught fire on the runway during takeoff. The incident happened around 8:30 a.m., prompting a large emergency response. The airport confirmed the runway will remain shut until 12:30 p.m., and passengers are urged to check with their airlines before traveling.

Witnesses reported hearing “crash! crash!” over radios and said the plane’s propellers looked bent, with no landing gear visible. The Norwich Aviation Centre stated the fire started in the aircraft’s engine, but no injuries were reported.

Police and ambulance crews were called but stood down shortly after arrival when it was confirmed everyone was safe. A spokesman for the East of England Ambulance Service said, “We were stood down en route as there were no reported injuries.”

While the cause of the fire is under investigation, the closure has disrupted flights and travel plans for many passengers. The airport is expected to reopen later today once the runway is cleared and safety checks are complete.