LONDON: A huge fire broke out at the London Southend Airport, with firefighters and six fire engines battling the blaze,” Russian media reported today.

An airport spokesperson told the media that a hangar belonging to Air Livery — a firm that repaints aircraft — on the north side of the site was burning. According to unconfirmed reports, the fire was preceded by an explosion

“Thick black smoke could be seen rising above the airport from kilometres away, though services were not affected by the fire,” he said adding: “Essex Fire and Rescue is currently dealing with an incident at the Air Livery hanger on the north side of the airfield.

“London Southend Airport is still open and operating as normal.’”

Later, the official Twitter account of the Essex fire service posted: “Firefighters have worked extremely hard to quickly extinguish the fire at @SouthendAirport. The fire is almost out. (sic)”