A dramatic scene unfolded at Heathrow late Friday when a fire at a nearby substation triggered a massive power outage, forcing the airport to halt operations and stranding tens of thousands of passengers.
Originally scheduled to handle 1,351 flights and nearly 291,000 passengers, Heathrow’s shutdown sent shockwaves across Britain and Europe. Many planes were rerouted to alternate airports, and long-haul flights even returned to their departure points as travel plans were abruptly upended.
In a determined effort to restore order, Heathrow teams worked tirelessly throughout the night. Limited flights resumed later on Friday, primarily focused on repositioning aircraft and reestablishing essential services. Heathrow Chief Executive Thomas Woldbye said, "Tomorrow morning, we expect to be back in full operation, to 100 percent operation as a normal day," and offered an apology to those affected by the disruption.
Authorities confirmed that, following an initial assessment, the incident was not regarded as suspicious. The London Fire Brigade has taken the lead in investigating the electrical distribution equipment involved in the blaze.
This incident highlights the intricate challenges modern air travel can face. For global travelers, business professionals, and digital nomads alike, the swift response by Heathrow underscores the commitment to restoring connectivity and minimizing travel disruptions under pressure.
Reference(s):
Heathrow reopens after fire forces mass flight cancellations
cgtn.com
