Stansted Fire Causes Major Delays, Rail Disruption

A small fire broke out in the Escape Lounge at London Stansted at about 03:30 BST and was quickly extinguished by the Airport Fire Service, with no reported injuries. Thick smoke forced evacuation of the departure area and the temporary closure of security, leaving thousands of passengers held outside or corralled inside and creating a large backlog. The terminal reopened and security processing resumed around 06:00–06:30, but the airport warned waiting times would be longer than usual and some flights were delayed or disrupted, with reports that a few early Ryanair services departed empty to protect later schedules. Rail services to the airport were also affected, adding to passenger disruption. Passengers were advised to check with their airlines for the latest flight information and to expect delays while airport and emergency teams worked to clear smoke and make the terminal safe.