Fire at Hayes Substation Forces Full-Day Closure of Heathrow Airport, Disrupting Travel Plans and Local Services

A fire at an electricity substation in Hayes, west London, has led to a significant power outage affecting London’s Heathrow Airport. The incident occurred on Friday, prompting the airport to announce its closure for the entire day. The fire, which is being tackled by 10 fire engines and approximately 70 firefighters from the London Fire Brigade, has disrupted the power supply to the major transportation hub.

Heathrow Airport communicated the situation via a post on X, advising passengers not to travel to the airport due to the ongoing power outage. The airport emphasized the importance of safety for both passengers and staff, stating that the closure would remain in effect until 23:59 local time on March 21, 2025. The airport’s management has expressed uncertainty about when power will be reliably restored, as fire crews continue to address the incident.

The closure of Heathrow Airport is expected to cause significant disruption over the coming days. The airport has committed to keeping the public informed as more information becomes available. Passengers are encouraged to stay updated on the situation and make alternative travel arrangements where necessary.

The fire at the substation has not only impacted the airport but also affected a large number of homes and local businesses in the area. Emergency services are working diligently to manage the situation and restore normalcy as soon as possible. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, and investigations are likely to follow once the immediate threat is contained.