Heathrow Airport Shut Down for 24 Hours After Major Fire at Electricity Substation

TDT | Manama

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Britain's Heathrow Airport, the busiest in Europe, was forced to close early Friday due to a major fire at an electricity substation, which led to a significant power outage affecting the sprawling facility west of London. Authorities confirmed the airport would remain closed for 24 hours, causing major disruptions to travel.

The power failure, which was linked to the fire at the substation in Hayes, a town in the London borough of Hillingdon, has resulted in significant travel delays. Airport authorities warned that "significant disruption" is expected to continue for several days, with hundreds of flights and thousands of passengers impacted.

"Heathrow is experiencing a significant power outage," the airport operator said in a statement on its website. "The airport will be closed until 11:59 PM GMT today, and passengers are advised not to travel to the airport until it reopens."

Flight tracking service FlightRadar24 reported that the airport’s closure would impact at least 1,351 flights. Of these, 120 flights were already en route when the closure announcement was made.

London Fire Brigade responded to the fire at the substation with 10 fire engines and around 70 firefighters on the scene. Approximately 150 people were evacuated from nearby properties.

Images circulating on social media, although not yet verified, showed dramatic scenes of flames and thick smoke rising from the substation. Videos taken inside Heathrow's terminals depicted empty corridors and shuttered shops, illuminated only by emergency lighting.

The fire has not only caused the power outage at Heathrow but has also affected local businesses and homes. London Fire Brigade Assistant Commissioner Pat Goulbourne stated, "We are working closely with our partners to minimise disruption and restore power as quickly as possible."

Passengers are urged to stay updated on the situation and avoid traveling to Heathrow until further notice.