A power surge at London Stansted Airport has caused major disruption, with passengers facing hours-long queues at security and immigration. Travellers took to X to post images showing large numbers of people waiting in line at the airport.
Passengers report 'total systemic collapse'
One post described the situation as a "total systemic collapse", citing problems with luggage belts and hold-ups at security. The X user wrote: "Total systemic collapse at Stansted Airport due to a power cut last night. Luggage belts not working, security clearing at a fraction of its usual operating speed. No guarantee I will see my luggage again today or even make my flight (in 2 hours). Staff explaining nothing at all."
A second added: "After 2 hours Stansted Airport's tannoy finally made a public announcement that electrical systems related to baggage, security and immigration are not working but staff are trying to fix things. We are thanked for our patience. They should have done this ages ago."
Airport confirms systems affected
A third wrote that "Stansted is completely rammed" and that the "car park is also rammed". Stansted Airport confirmed that a power surge had temporarily affected several airport systems and that, while most systems have since been restored, passengers are still experiencing residual delays.
A spokesperson for Stansted Airport said: "Due to an earlier power surge that has affected the airport and local area, a number of airport systems were temporarily impacted. While most systems are now back in operation, some remain affected and not operating to full capacity, including security and baggage systems. Teams are working hard to restore all services and support passengers on their journeys through the airport."
Earlier rail disruption
Earlier this week, Greater Anglia was compelled to cancel scores of Stansted Express trains after fallen trees obstructed the line running between the airport and London. Disrupted routes included Stansted Express services between London Liverpool Street and Stansted Airport, along with Greater Anglia services to Cambridge North, and the Hertfordshire towns of Broxbourne and Bishop's Stortford.
