Following a significant electrical substation fire that temporarily shut down operations, Heathrow Airport is working to return to full service by Saturday after the day's unprecedented disruptions.
Heathrow Airport Resumes Operations After Fire Disruption
Heathrow Airport Resumes Operations After Fire Disruption
Massive disruption leads to over 1,000 flight cancellations as authorities investigate fire's cause.
March 21, 2025, 4:54 p.m. ET – Heathrow Airport experienced severe disruptions today after a fire at an electrical substation led to the cancellation or diversion of over 1,000 flights, significantly impacting air travel not just in the UK, but globally. The chaos unfolded as airport officials described the electrical outage that ensued as comparable to losing power in a midsize city.
Airport CEO Thomas Woldbye conveyed the challenges faced, noting that while backup systems functioned effectively, they ultimately were insufficient to maintain operations for the entire airport. However, he assured that full operations could resume as early as Saturday.
The cause of the fire that erupted at the North Hyde substation is currently under investigation, with counterterrorism police now leading the inquiry, though initial assessments suggest that the incident is not deemed suspicious. Authorities in London reiterated that while investigations continue, there is no immediate threat to public safety.
In the wake of this incident, questions are being raised regarding the reliability of Heathrow's infrastructure, particularly its reliance on a single electrical substation for such a critical operation. As of late Friday afternoon, the airport had yet to assess the full economic impact of the disruption, but the ramifications are expected to be significant.
Airport CEO Thomas Woldbye conveyed the challenges faced, noting that while backup systems functioned effectively, they ultimately were insufficient to maintain operations for the entire airport. However, he assured that full operations could resume as early as Saturday.
The cause of the fire that erupted at the North Hyde substation is currently under investigation, with counterterrorism police now leading the inquiry, though initial assessments suggest that the incident is not deemed suspicious. Authorities in London reiterated that while investigations continue, there is no immediate threat to public safety.
In the wake of this incident, questions are being raised regarding the reliability of Heathrow's infrastructure, particularly its reliance on a single electrical substation for such a critical operation. As of late Friday afternoon, the airport had yet to assess the full economic impact of the disruption, but the ramifications are expected to be significant.
