By GB News (World News) | Created at 2025-03-21 14:46:15 | Updated at 2025-03-21 19:17:13
4 hours ago
London Mayor Sadiq Khan has said there is "no reason to suspect foul play" despite counter-terrorism police leading an investigation into a major fire at an electrical substation near Heathrow Airport.
The blaze has forced the closure of the UK's busiest airport for the entire day, affecting approximately 1,400 flights.
Speaking at London Fire Brigade headquarters, Khan explained that counter-terror teams were involved due to the "proximity of the substation to the airport".
The fire broke out at an electrical substation in Hayes at around 11:30pm last night, according to London Fire Brigade.
"The fire service, the fire brigade, have been on the scene, they've been there since early this morning. They work really closely with the police service.
"Clearly because of the proximity of the substation to the airport it's not a surprise the counter-terror teams been involved.
"The police service and the fire brigade will make sure that the public know whenever there's any information to pass on to the public. But there's no reason at all to suspect foul play at the moment."
He added: "It's one of the best airports in the world when it runs well. Clearly, today is going to be huge inconvenience to thousands of people, not just in London but across the globe.
"It's really important the government is coordinating to support those passengers who are stranded. It's really important those people who are going to leave today contact Heathrow or the airline about what the plans are.
"Heathrow is working really hard with National Grid to make sure things can return to normal as soon as possible.
"Clearly this will take some time for things to return to normal but it will be as soon as possible."
The airport has advised passengers not to travel to the terminals and to contact their airlines for further instructions.
Counter-terrorism police are leading the investigation into the major fire
PA
While counter-terrorism police are leading the investigation into the cause of the fire, authorities have also stated there is currently "no indication of foul play". The closure has left thousands of travellers stranded both in the UK and abroad.
A Downing Street spokesperson explained: “The fire is still burning and I’m aware that the airport has announced a complete closure until midnight tonight as a result of the situation.
“It will be for emergency services and Heathrow to update on timescales for when this situation will be resolved. We do expect there will be significant direct disruption in the hours and days ahead.”
There was a “cross-government call” on Friday morning to deal with the immediate aftermath of the fire, the spokesman said.
