A significant vehicle fire erupted at Heathrow Airport this morning, causing disruption and alarm at one of the UK's busiest travel hubs. The incident occurred on the Terminal 5 Departures forecourt, where large flames and thick black smoke were visible, leading to widespread reports on social media and initial chaos.
Heathrow Issues Official Statement on the Incident
A spokesperson for Heathrow Airport confirmed the details, stating that the fire has been extinguished. They said, "Earlier this morning our teams responded to a vehicle fire on the Terminal 5 Departures forecourt. The fire was extinguished quickly and there were no injuries. The airport is now operating as usual." This reassurance comes after eyewitnesses and online posts described the scene as alarming.
Social Media Reports Capture the Chaos
Many people took to platforms like X to share images and videos of the blaze. One user remarked, "Good start to the day with a fire at Heathrow T5," accompanied by a clip showing smoke rising above the airport. These posts highlighted the initial confusion and concern among travellers and staff, with reports indicating that the fire involved a car and sparked significant attention.
Impact and Aftermath of the Fire
Despite the dramatic visuals, the situation was brought under control promptly. Key points include:
- The fire was extinguished quickly by airport response teams.
- No injuries were reported, ensuring safety for all involved.
- Heathrow Airport has resumed normal operations, minimising travel disruptions.
This incident serves as a reminder of the swift emergency protocols in place at major UK airports, helping to manage unforeseen events efficiently.
