A devastating fire broke out at Terminal Car Park 2 of Luton Airport on October 10, 2023, causing chaos and prompting the suspension of all flights until noon on October 11th. The blaze, ignited by a car fire, quickly spread to other vehicles in the multi-storey car park, leading to a major incident declaration by the Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service.
In a swift response to the emergency, 15 fire appliances were deployed on the ground, with an additional three in the air, as firefighters battled the inferno and explosions resonated through the newly-built site[. Tragically, five individuals were injured and promptly taken to the hospital for treatment. The exact cause of the car fire is under investigation.
The airport authorities have issued a plea for the public to avoid the site, implementing strict access restrictions. It is estimated that approximately 1,200 vehicles might have been present in the car park at the time of the incident, with most suffering extensive damage.
The impact on travelers has been substantial, with all flights suspended until noon on October 11th, 2023. Passengers have been advised to consult their respective airlines for further updates regarding their flights, as the airport grapples with the aftermath of this calamity.
This incident has sent shockwaves through the community, emphasizing the importance of safety protocols and emergency preparedness in public spaces. The airport authorities continue to work closely with emergency services to manage the situation and assess the extent of the damage.
Resources:
1.https://www.bbc.com/news/av/uk-67072903
2.https://inews.co.uk/news/luton-airport-suspends-flights-after-fire-breaks-out-in-car-park-2679011
3.https://metro.co.uk/2023/10/10/luton-airport-fire-car-park-hit-by-massive-blaze-19642784/