Heathrow Airport Shuts Down After Massive Fire Causes Power Outage
London’s Heathrow Airport was forced to shut down on Friday after a fire at a nearby electrical substation knocked out the power to the airport and surrounding area, causing widespread flight cancellations and travel disruptions. Approximately 70 firefighters battled the massive blaze in Hayes, west London, which also took out the airport’s backup power system. `The airport, which handles over 1,300 flights a day, has warned passengers not to travel there "under any circumstances."
Thousands of flights have been canceled or diverted, with some planes returning to their departure points mid-air. British Airways, the airport’s largest airline, has been hit hard, along with Virgin Atlantic and Lufthansa. The disruption is expected to last for days as airlines scramble to reposition aircraft and crews. Meanwhile, nearly 5,000 homes remain without power, and local residents have been evacuated. Firefighters have contained the blaze, but authorities have yet to determine its cause.
The incident raises concerns about Heathrow’s infrastructure, with questions being asked about why such a major airport lacked sufficient backup power. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander and Energy Minister Ed Miliband have called for an investigation. Heathrow, which has been pushing for a third runway, now faces scrutiny over its ability to handle crises. Airlines and passengers alike are bracing for prolonged disruption as Heathrow works to restore power and normal operations.
