120 Flights Diverted as Fire Forces Heathrow Airport to Shut Down
London’s Heathrow Airport, one of the world’s busiest, has shut down for 24 hours after a major fire at a nearby electrical substation caused a huge power outage. All incoming and outgoing flights have been canceled, stranding thousands of passengers.
The fire broke out late Thursday night at the substation in Hayes, around 1.5 miles from the airport. The blaze led to a blackout across West London, affecting homes and businesses.
Officials said the airport will remain closed until midnight Friday for safety reasons. Over 120 flights already in the air were forced to divert.
Air India confirmed flight disruptions, with one plane returning to Mumbai and another diverted to Frankfurt.
The London Fire Brigade sent 10 fire engines to the site. Authorities are working to restore power but haven’t given a timeline for full operations to resume.
Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for updates.
