Major Disruptions: Emirates and Etihad Cancel Flights to Heathrow Due to Airport Closure

UAE carriers Emirates and Etihad have canceled several flights to and from London’s Heathrow Airport (LHR) following the airport’s sudden closure. The shutdown, which began earlier, is expected to last until midnight on March 21 due to a significant power outage caused by a fire at an electrical substation supplying the airport. Heathrow officials stated that the closure is necessary “to maintain the safety of our passengers and colleagues.”

Impact on Etihad Flights.

Etihad Airways has announced the cancellation of the following flights:

• EY63 (Abu Dhabi to LHR)

• EY64 (LHR to Abu Dhabi)

• EY65 (Abu Dhabi to LHR)

• EY66 (LHR to Abu Dhabi)

However, Etihad’s EY61 service from Abu Dhabi to London will be diverted to Frankfurt Airport instead.

Impact on Emirates Flights.

Emirates has also canceled several flights scheduled for Friday, including:

• EK001/002 (Dubai-Heathrow-Dubai)

• EK029/030 (Dubai-Heathrow-Dubai)

• EK031/032 (Dubai-Heathrow-Dubai)

• EK008 (Heathrow to Dubai)

• EK003/004 (Dubai-Heathrow-Dubai)

• EK005/006 (Dubai-Heathrow-Dubai)

The airline has advised that passengers booked or connecting onto these canceled flights will not be accepted for travel. Emirates stated, “We’re monitoring the situation closely and will update our customers as the situation develops.”

Heathrow Advises Against Travel.

Heathrow Airport has warned travelers to expect significant disruption over the coming days and urged passengers not to travel to the airport under any circumstances until it reopens.

As the UK’s largest and busiest airport, Heathrow plays a crucial role in global air travel. According to travel data firm OAG, it was the world’s second-busiest international airport in 2024, behind Dubai International Airport.

Fire in Hayes: The Cause of the Disruption.

The London Fire Brigade confirmed that crews were tackling a fire in Hayes, West London, which led to the power outage affecting Heathrow. Approximately 150 people were evacuated from the affected area as a precaution.

What’s Next? 

Airlines and Heathrow officials are working to restore normal operations, but delays and cancellations are expected to continue for the foreseeable future. Travelers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates before making any plans.

For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned to iknowuae.com..