On the evening of October 10, 2023, a massive blaze erupted on the top floor of a multi-story parking garage at Terminal 2 of London’s Luton Airport, causing significant disruptions and injuries. Situated about 35 miles north of central London, Luton Airport is a pivotal hub for many travelers.
Initial findings suggest that the fire originated around 9 pm from a diesel vehicle parked on the top floor of the garage. Without the presence of a sprinkler system, the flames spread to adjacent vehicles, intensifying the situation. This rapid escalation was captured on video, portraying a vivid image of the inferno that raged on late into the night.
A witness, who had recently landed from Scotland, recounted the initial response. The individual saw fire engines attempting to douse a burning vehicle, but within minutes, most of the upper floor was ablaze. The audible alarms from the vehicles, coupled with the continuous explosions, made the scene even more shocking.
As a result of the fire, four firefighters and one airport employee required hospitalization for smoke inhalation. Another individual received treatment at the scene for minor injuries. The event led to over 140 flights being cancelled on Wednesday, October 10, with an additional 17 being diverted to alternative airports, causing delays and inconveniences for around 25,000 travelers.
A portion of the garage faced significant structural damage, and preliminary assessments suggest that up to 1,500 vehicles might have been affected, either being damaged or destroyed.
The magnitude of the fire, its rapid spread, and subsequent explosions shocked many, including travelers and airport staff. Based on preliminary investigations, authorities have stated that the blaze was not started deliberately. However, the absence of a sprinkler system in the garage has raised concerns.
By Wednesday afternoon, firefighters managed to control and subdue the flames, but the aftermath and ongoing investigations have led to traffic advisories, urging people to avoid the vicinity of the airport. The impact on travel schedules is expected to continue for the following days, with authorities and airline operators working diligently to mitigate the disruptions and ensure the safety of all involved.
