Cargo Operations at Heathrow Airport Severely Affected as Fire at Electrical Substation Triggers Major Power Outage

The closure is expected to affect more than 1,300 flights, with cargo operations facing severe disruptions as well. Authorities have warned of continued logistical challenges even after services resume. In an official statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Heathrow authorities confirmed the suspension of all operations. “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 23:59 on 21 March,” the statement read.

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

Airlines have been advised to reroute to alternative hubs, as the airport remains inoperative.

Air India said the London Heathrow-bound flight with number AI129 from Mumbai is returning to Mumbai, and flight AI161 from Delhi is being diverted to Frankfurt.  “All our remaining flights to and from London Heathrow, including AI111 of this morning, have been cancelled for 21 March. We will update you about the resumption of operations as soon as we have more information. Flights to London Gatwick remain unaffected,” the statement added.

 Heathrow is a key cargo hub, handling more than 1.6 million metric tonnes of freight annually, making it the UK’s largest airport for cargo throughput. The closure has resulted in major disruptions in global supply chains, particularly affecting industries dependent on just-in-time deliveries, such as pharmaceuticals, perishables, and high-value electronics.  According to the latest data, Heathrow’s cargo traffic represents more than 40% of the UK’s total air freight, with around £188 billion worth of goods transported through the airport each year. This outage is expected to significantly impact cargo shipments, forcing airlines and logistics companies to divert freight to alternative airports such as Frankfurt, Amsterdam Schiphol, and Paris Charles de Gaulle… According to the London Fire Brigade, the fire originated from a transformer within the substation. Around 10 fire engines and 70 firefighters were dispatched to contain the blaze, and about 150 people from nearby properties were evacuated as a precaution. Despite the emergency response, airport authorities have not provided an estimated time for full restoration of power.  While Heathrow is set to reopen at midnight on March 21, experts caution that normalcy may take several days to restore. The rescheduling of flights, repositioning of aircraft, and clearance of backlog cargo will require coordinated efforts between airport authorities, airlines, and logistics companies.

With global supply chains already under strain due to geopolitical tensions and economic disruptions, the unexpected halt at Heathrow could lead to delays and increased costs for businesses relying on air freight. Logistics firms are closely monitoring the situation and implementing contingency plans to minimize the economic impact. As the airport works towards resuming normal operations, the aviation and logistics industries will be closely monitoring the fallout from this unprecedented shutdown.