A significant fire at an electrical substation near London’s Heathrow Airport has resulted in the temporary closure of one of the world's busiest airports. Heathrow Airport officials confirmed that the blaze, which erupted at the substation that supplies essential power to the airport, has led to a substantial power outage. The airport is expected to remain closed until 11:59 p.m. local time on Friday night.
British Airways, the primary airline operating from Heathrow Airport, has issued advisories urging travelers not to make their way to the airport. The airline is actively working to inform passengers about their travel options for the next 24 hours and beyond, emphasizing the importance of staying updated during this disruption.
In light of the ongoing situation, officials have announced that all inbound flights to Heathrow are being redirected to other airports across the UK. This decision has been made to ensure the safety of passengers and to manage the significant operational challenges posed by the power outage.
The power outage has not only affected airport operations but has also impacted numerous homes and businesses in the surrounding area. Emergency services, including the London Fire Brigade, reported that they have executed some evacuations. Firefighters successfully led 29 individuals to safety from nearby properties while establishing a cordon around the affected area. Approximately 150 residents were evacuated as a precautionary measure.
Pat Goulbourne, Assistant Commissioner of the London Fire Brigade, noted the incident's severity, stating, "This is a highly visible and significant incident, and our firefighters are working tirelessly in challenging conditions to bring the fire under control as swiftly as possible." The cause of the fire remains undetermined, and investigations are ongoing.
This situation is still evolving, and updates are expected as more information becomes available. Travelers and those in the vicinity of Heathrow Airport are encouraged to stay informed and check for further updates regarding the airport's status and travel options.
