Heathrow Airport Closes After Fire Sparks Major Travel Disruptions

A massive fire at an electrical substation near Heathrow Airport triggered a large-scale power outage, leading to the complete closure of one of the world’s busiest travel hubs. The disruption affected over 1,300 flights, leaving thousands of passengers stranded and causing significant logistical challenges for airlines and transportation services.

The fire, which broke out at the North Hyde electrical substation in West London, caused widespread power cuts, impacting more than 16,300 homes in the Hayes and Hounslow areas. The London Fire Brigade responded with 10 fire engines and approximately 70 firefighters to contain the blaze. According to reports, portions of a transformer continued to burn even hours after the initial outbreak.

A spokesperson for Heathrow confirmed that the airport was unable to operate due to the outage, leading to a full closure until at least 23:59 on March 21, 2025.

Heathrow spokesperson stated:

"Heathrow is experiencing a significant power outage across the airport due to a large fire at a nearby electrical substation. Whilst fire crews are responding to the incident, we do not have clarity on when power may be reliably restored."

The shutdown led to severe travel disruptions, with 679 incoming flights and 678 outgoing flights affected. Some 120 flights were already en route to Heathrow at the time of the announcement. The disruption impacted not just domestic travel but also key international routes, as Heathrow serves as a major hub for global connectivity.

With the airport closed, alternative airports had to accommodate rerouted flights. Online tracking data showed aircraft being diverted to Gatwick, Paris Charles de Gaulle, and Shannon Airport in Ireland. Some transatlantic flights were forced to return to their departure points in Canada and the United States.

Gatwick Airport spokesperson stated:

"We are aware of the situation at Heathrow Airport today and we are supporting by accepting diverted flights as required. Flights are operating from London Gatwick as normal today."

Shannon Airport also reported receiving six unexpected arrivals from North America, including flights from Toronto, Atlanta, and Boston.

The power failure extended beyond Heathrow, disrupting local transport networks. Heathrow Express train services were suspended entirely, and National Rail confirmed that Hayes and Harlington station remained closed due to the outage.

Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks, responsible for power distribution in the affected area, worked to restore electricity, aiming for a resolution by 3 PM on Friday. However, the extent of damage to equipment caused delays in restoring full power to the airport.

National Grid spokesperson stated:

"The fire caused damage to equipment, and we are working at speed to restore power supplies as quickly as possible."

Authorities established a 200-metre safety cordon around the site of the fire, evacuating approximately 150 residents from nearby homes as a precautionary measure.

As emergency response teams continued efforts to restore operations, Heathrow officials urged passengers not to travel to the airport until further notice. Updates on resuming normal operations were expected as soon as the power situation improved.