London Heathrow Airport, Europe's largest, was closed for 24 hours due to a fire and a subsequent major blackout . The blaze, which was contained, is believed to have affected an electrical substation in Hayes, on the western outskirts of London, which serves the airport.
"Heathrow is experiencing a major power outage. To ensure the safety of our passengers and colleagues, it will remain closed until 23:59 on 21 March," Heathrow Airport Holdings said.
At least 1,351 flights have been cancelled, causing major disruption around the world, according to flight tracking service FlightRadar24. Flag carrier British Airways said the impact of the fire was "significant."
In addition to the airport, “a large number of local homes and businesses” have been affected by the blaze, which was reported at 11:23 p.m. Thursday, according to fire department spokesman Pat Goulbourne. “Our firefighters are working tirelessly, in difficult conditions, to control the fire as quickly as possible,” he said. Ten trucks and about 70 firefighters have been deployed. At least 150 people have been evacuated from the area and a 200-meter safety perimeter has been established.
Ranked among the top five airports in the world, Heathrow serves 80 countries and handles 1,300 take-offs and landings per day. It is used by around 230,000 passengers each day.
(Online Union)
