Heathrow Airport Closed After Fire at Electrical Substation Knocks Out Power

Heathrow Airport, Britain’s busiest airport, will close for a whole day on Friday, March 21, 2025, following a major power breakdown after a blaze hit an electrical substation near the airport. The airport gave warnings of huge disruptions and discouraged travelers from accessing the airport until it reopened.

The blaze, which started late last evening at Hayes substation in west London, has also left thousands of homes blacked out. Firefighters are fighting to put the fire under control, but it is unclear when power would be restored to full capacity.

Over 1,350 flights that arrive and depart from Heathrow are affected, with some diverted or turned around to the departure point. The passengers are told to contact airlines for more information.

The officials are still seeking to know the cause of the fire, and residents in the area have been told to stay indoors because of the smoke. Heathrow has apologized for the disruption and is trying to repair the issue as quickly as possible.