Thousands of travellers faced chaos on Tuesday as a sudden closure of the M4 motorway near Heathrow Airport caused severe disruptions to flights and road traffic. The incident, which occurred during the morning rush hour, left passengers stranded and sparked a wave of cancellations.
What Happened?
The M4, a critical artery for access to Heathrow, was shut down in both directions due to an emergency incident. Authorities have yet to confirm the exact cause, but early reports suggest a multi-vehicle collision may be to blame.
Impact on Heathrow
Heathrow Airport, one of the busiest in the world, saw immediate knock-on effects:
- Long delays for passengers arriving by road
- Multiple flight cancellations due to crew and staff being unable to reach the airport
- Increased security checks causing further bottlenecks
Passenger Frustration Mounts
"I've been stuck in traffic for over two hours," said one frustrated traveller. "My flight leaves in 30 minutes and there's no way I'll make it." Similar stories echoed across social media as passengers shared their experiences of missed connections and ruined travel plans.
Alternative Routes Suggested
Transport for London has advised motorists to use the A4 as an alternative route, though this is already experiencing heavy congestion. Public transport options including the Heathrow Express and Elizabeth Line remain operational but are reporting higher than usual passenger numbers.
What's Next?
While authorities work to clear the incident, passengers are being advised to:
- Check flight status before travelling to the airport
- Allow at least an extra two hours for their journey
- Consider using rail services where possible
The situation remains fluid, with further updates expected throughout the day.
