Latest Update – 4.22pm Friday
“Following an earlier power outage, Heathrow is now safely able to restart flights.
“To maintain the safety of our passengers and colleagues, Heathrow will running a reduced operation prioritising repatriation and relocation of aircraft.
“Passengers should contact their airline for further information. We apologise for the inconvenience.”
Earlier Update
Heathrow Airport will remain closed for the rest of the day (Friday 21st March), following a severe fire at an electrical substation.
Passengers have been told to stay away and not to travel to the airport and urged to contact their airline. Major disruption is expected.
In an update, Heathrow Airport said:
“Due to a fire at an electrical substation supplying the airport, Heathrow is experiencing a significant power outage.
“To maintain the safety of our passengers and colleagues, Heathrow will be closed until 23:59 on 21 March.
“Passengers are advised not to travel to the airport and should contact their airline for further information.
“We apologise for the inconvenience.”
Heathrow is the UK’s biggest airport, located 14 miles west of Central London and serving hundreds of destinations across the world.
Latest Update from London Fire Brigade:
Ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters responded to a fire at an electrical substation on Nestles Avenue in Hayes.
A transformer within the substation was alight. There were no reports of any injuries.
Assistant Commissioner Pat Goulbourne said: “This was a very visible and significant incident, and our firefighters worked tirelessly in challenging conditions to bring the fire under control as swiftly as possible.
“Thanks to their efforts and coordinated multi-agency response, we successfully contained the fire and prevented further spread.
“We will maintain a presence at the scene throughout the day, assisting the National Grid as they assess the site.
“The fire has caused a widespread power outage, affecting many homes, local businesses, and Heathrow Airport. While power has been restored to some properties, we continue to work closely with our partners to minimise disruption.
“Firefighters safely evacuated 29 people from neighbouring properties, and as a precaution, a 200-metre cordon was established, with around 150 people evacuated.
“Due to the significant smoke, we strongly advise local residents to keep their windows and doors closed, as some smoke will remain for a number of hours today. Scientific advisors will also be on-site this morning to conduct further assessments and monitor the air quality.
“Our Control Officers handled more than 200 emergency calls, providing guidance and reassurance to the public.
“As the morning progresses, disruption is expected to continue, and we urge people to avoid the area whenever possible.”
The Brigade was called at 2323 and crews from Hayes, Heathrow, Hillingdon, Southall and surrounding fire stations were mobilised to the scene. The fire was under control by 0628.
The Brigade’s fire investigators are working closely with the Metropolitan Police Service on the investigation into the cause of the fire.
Earlier Update from London Fire Brigade:
Ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters responded to a fire at an electrical substation on Nestles Avenue in Hayes.
A transformer within the substation was alight. There were no reports of any injuries.
Assistant Commissioner Pat Goulbourne said: “This was a very visible and significant incident, and our firefighters worked tirelessly in challenging conditions to bring the fire under control as swiftly as possible.
“Thanks to their efforts and coordinated multi-agency response, we successfully contained the fire and prevented further spread.
“We will maintain a presence at the scene throughout the day, assisting the National Grid as they assess the site.
“The fire has caused a widespread power outage, affecting many homes, local businesses, and Heathrow Airport. While power has been restored to some properties, we continue to work closely with our partners to minimise disruption.
“Firefighters safely evacuated 29 people from neighbouring properties, and as a precaution, a 200-metre cordon was established, with around 150 people evacuated.
“Due to the significant smoke, we strongly advise local residents to keep their windows and doors closed, as some smoke will remain for a number of hours today. Scientific advisors will also be on-site this morning to conduct further assessments and monitor the air quality.
“Our Control Officers handled more than 200 emergency calls, providing guidance and reassurance to the public.
“As the morning progresses, disruption is expected to continue, and we urge people to avoid the area whenever possible.”
The Brigade was called at 2323 and crews from Hayes, Heathrow, Hillingdon, Southall and surrounding fire stations were mobilised to the scene. The fire was under control by 0628.
The Brigade’s fire investigators are working closely with the Metropolitan Police Service on the investigation into the cause of the fire.
