Fri Mar 21 05:39:31 UTC 2025: ## Heathrow Airport Closed After Substation Fire
**London, March 21, 2025** – Heathrow Airport, one of Europe’s busiest airports, has been forced to close for the entire day after a fire at a nearby electrical substation caused a major power outage. The fire, which broke out late Thursday night, affected more than 16,300 homes in addition to the airport. Around 150 people were evacuated from the area.
The airport announced the closure to ensure passenger and staff safety, warning of significant disruption in the coming days and urging passengers not to travel to the airport. National Rail cancelled all trains to and from Heathrow. The airport’s statement indicated that it will provide an update once power is restored.
The London Fire Brigade responded with 10 fire engines and approximately 70 firefighters. Footage shared on social media showed significant flames and smoke billowing from the substation. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
The closure impacts thousands of passengers, with numerous flight cancellations already reported, including several transatlantic flights. Heathrow had its busiest January on record earlier this year, handling over 6.3 million passengers. The airport typically opens at 6 a.m., but this closure will last until 11:59 p.m. Friday. The UK government recently approved the construction of a third runway at Heathrow.
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