London, UK: A major fire at a power station in West London has forced the closure of Heathrow Airport, one of the world’s busiest travel hubs, until midnight on Friday. The blaze, which erupted at an electrical substation in Hayes on March 20, has disrupted air travel across the region, with 120 flights currently airborne facing diversion to alternative airports or being rerouted to their points of origin. Authorities warn that travel chaos could persist for days as emergency crews battle to restore power.
The London Fire Brigade is actively combating the fire, which sent thick plumes of smoke and flames billowing into the sky. Approximately 150 people were evacuated from the surrounding area as a precautionary measure. While firefighters work to contain the situation, the timeline for restoring full power to Heathrow remains uncertain, leaving airlines and passengers in limbo.
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Heathrow Airport, ranked as the world’s second-busiest international airport in 2024 by travel data firm OAG, issued a statement on X: “To maintain the safety of our passengers and colleagues, Heathrow will be closed until 23:59 on 21 March.” The airport urged travelers to avoid heading to the facility until further notice. Eurocontrol, the agency overseeing air traffic across Europe, confirmed that no arrivals are being permitted at Heathrow due to the power outage, with contingency plans in place to redirect flights.
The incident has sparked widespread concern for both safety and logistics, given Heathrow’s critical role in global aviation. As the situation unfolds, passengers are advised to check with their airlines for updates, while officials continue to assess the full scope of the disruption caused by this unexpected emergency.
Key Points: Heathrow Airport Closure Due to Power Station Fire
- Heathrow Airport Closed: A fire at a power station in West London has forced Heathrow Airport to shut down until midnight on Friday, March 21, 2025.
- Flight Disruptions: 120 flights currently in the air are being diverted to other airports or returned to their departure points, with travel disruptions expected to last for days.
- Fire Details: The blaze broke out at an electrical substation in Hayes on March 20, 2025, producing significant smoke and flames.
- Evacuations: Approximately 150 people were evacuated from the area near the substation as a precaution.
- Emergency Response: The London Fire Brigade is actively working to extinguish the fire, but full power restoration remains uncertain.
- Official Statement: Heathrow Airport announced the closure on X, prioritizing passenger and staff safety, and advised travelers not to come to the airport.
- Air Traffic Impact: Eurocontrol reported no arrivals are permitted at Heathrow due to the power outage, with diversion plans in effect.
- Heathrow’s Status: In 2024, Heathrow was the world’s second-busiest international airport, according to OAG travel data, underscoring the scale of the disruption.
