Footage shows police and fire crews surrounding the rogue Heathrow substation that caused flight carnage today.

Resident Zonjy recorded the tense scene on North Hyde Road in Hayes, West London, following the blaze that closed down Heathrow Airport in the early hours of Friday morning.

Police cordoned off roads around the electricity substation on Nestles Avenue, which is a vital point in the grid.

Thousands of homes were also affected by the inferno, which plunged the airport into darkness throughout the early hours of the morning.

Hundreds of departing flights at the London airport were cancelled while those arriving were delayed and diverted.

Martin, from Bristol, Somerset, said he and his business partner Andrew, were stranded in Abu Dhabi while flights were rerouted.

He said: 'We're in the lounge. There's no sign of when our flight back to London will be.'

Heathrow was the world's second-busiest international airport in 2024 behind Dubai, according to travel data firm OAG.

The London Fire Brigade said: 'The fire in Hayes is now under control but we will remain on the scene during the day.

'Our fire investigators will begin their investigation and we will continue to work closely with our partners to minimise disruption and support the community.'

A Heathrow Aiport spokesman said: '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 and should contact their airline for further information. We apologise for the inconvenience.'