Heathrow Airport shut due to massive fire

LONDON: Heathrow Airport will remain closed all day Friday following a major fire at a nearby electrical substation that supplies power to the airport, the BBC reported.

The fire has caused a “significant power outage”, disrupting operations at the UK’s busiest airport, which handles around 1,300 flights daily.

“To ensure the safety of passengers and staff, Heathrow will be closed until 23:59 on March 21,” the airport said in a statement. Travellers have been advised not to visit the airport and to contact their airlines for updates.

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Firefighters are battling the blaze in Hayes, West London, which has also caused widespread power cuts, affecting over 16,300 homes. Around 150 residents have been evacuated from nearby properties.

The London Fire Brigade (LFB) dispatched 10 fire engines and 70 firefighters to the scene. A 200-meter safety cordon has been set up, and residents have been urged to keep windows and doors closed due to heavy smoke.

The fire broke out late Thursday night, prompting nearly 200 emergency calls. Authorities received the first report at 23:23, but the cause remains unknown.

“This is a major incident, and our firefighters are working tirelessly in difficult conditions to control the blaze,” said LFB Assistant Commissioner Pat Goulborne.

The disruption is expected to increase throughout the day, and officials have urged people to avoid the area.