A major security alert caused significant disruption at one of the world's busiest travel hubs on Tuesday, as Heathrow Airport's Terminal 2, the Queen's Terminal, was abruptly evacuated.
Emergency services, including specialist hazardous materials officers, rushed to the scene following reports of a potentially dangerous substance. The swift response led to the complete clearance of a large section of the departure lounge as a precautionary measure.
Passengers recounted scenes of confusion as police and airport staff directed them to safety. The incident caused substantial delays and upheaval for countless travellers, with many taking to social media to express their frustration and concern.
An official spokesperson for Heathrow Airport confirmed that the emergency services were investigating a "hazardous item" and that the safety of passengers and staff remained their absolute priority. They advised all passengers to check their flight status with their airline for the latest information.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the high-security protocols in place at critical national infrastructure sites. Operations have since returned to normal following the all-clear from emergency crews.
