Heathrow terminal 'safe to reopen' after evacuation over possible hazardous materials

LAST UPDATE | 16 hrs ago

HEATHROW’S TERMINAL FOUR is “safe to reopen” after it was evacuated to allow firefighters to respond to a “possible hazardous materials incident” at the airport.

The exact cause of the incident remains under investigation. 

London Fire Brigade responded to the incident at around 5pm this evening, with the terminal subsequently evacuated as a precaution.

The fire service said around 20 people were assessed at the scene by paramedics from the London Ambulance Service, with the Metropolitan Police stating that “no trace of any adverse substance” was found. 

In a statement on X, the airport said: “Emergency services have confirmed Terminal 4 is safe to reopen and we are doing everything we can to ensure all flights to depart as planned today.

“We are very sorry for the disruption caused, the safety and security of our passengers and colleagues is our number one priority.”

Advertisement

The statement urged passengers to check with their airline for the latest information about their flights.

London Fire Brigade said it was in the process of standing down its operation at Heathrow. 

Around 20 people reported an injury and “no trace of any adverse substance was found” after officers were called to Heathrow, the Metropolitan Police has said.

The Met Police said they were called to a potentially hazardous materials incident at Heathrow shortly before 5pm. 

“Specialist officers attended the scene alongside the London Fire Brigade and London Ambulance Service and conducted a thorough search of the area,” the police said in a statement. 

“No trace of any adverse substance was found. Around 20 people reported an injury. None were deemed to be life-threatening or life-changing. Enquiries are ongoing.”

Earlier, National Rail said trains were unable to call at Heathrow Terminal 4 because of the incident.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said she was monitoring updates from those at the scene and the airport.

According to the airport’s website, five flights departing from the affected terminal are expected to be delayed. 

Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone...
A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.
Learn More Support The Journal