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Heathrow Airport Closes Following Substation Fire and Power Outage

A major electrical fire in west London has disrupted over 1,300 flights and left thousands without power as investigations continue.

This image shared by the London Fire Brigade shows a fire at an electrical substation supplying Heathrow Airport, in Hayes, England, on March 21, 2025
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A British Airways passenger plane flies over a road direction sign as it makes its landing approach to Heathrow Airport in west London, Britain. (Representative)
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Overview

  • The fire at the North Hyde electrical substation in Hayes began late on March 20, causing a significant power outage at Heathrow Airport and nearby areas.
  • Heathrow Airport, one of the world's busiest, will remain closed until midnight on March 21, affecting at least 1,351 flights and disrupting global travel.
  • Approximately 150 people were evacuated from the area near the substation, with a 200-meter safety cordon established as firefighters work to contain the blaze.
  • The power outage has left over 16,000 homes and businesses in west London without electricity, and restoration efforts are ongoing.
  • Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the fire, and passengers are advised to avoid the airport and contact airlines for updates.