There will be massive disruption to global air travel today after Heathrow Airport was forced to close.
A huge fire at a nearby electrical substation in London has led to a complete power outage at what is one of the busiest airports in the world.
Due to a fire at an electrical substation supplying the airport, Heathrow is experiencing a significant power outage.
To maintain the safety of our passengers and colleagues, Heathrow will be closed until 23h59 on 21 March.
Passengers are advised not to travel to the airport… pic.twitter.com/7SWNJP8ojd
— Heathrow Airport (@HeathrowAirport) March 21, 2025
At least 1,300 flights were due to land and take off today, with all of those now expected to be cancelled. It's led to a number of cancellations at Dublin Airport.
Passenger Update - 9am
All flights scheduled between Dublin Airport and London Heathrow today (Friday) have been cancelled following the closure of @HeathrowAirport due to a power outage.
A total of 34 flights were scheduled between Dublin Airport and Heathrow today (17… https://t.co/MkTFIgppUD pic.twitter.com/ncxa03YzT5
— Dublin Airport (@DublinAirport) March 21, 2025
120 planes were diverted midair, and passengers have been told not to travel to the terminal 'under any circumstances'.
Heathrow says it has no clarity on when power will be fully restored and expects significant disruption over the coming days.
Ryanair is running 'rescue' flights for those affected. The airline has added up to eight flights between Dublin and London Stansted, with four today and four tomorrow.
