Stansted Fire Causes Evacuations, Widespread Delays

On Sept. 24, 2025, a fire broke out in the Escape Lounge at London Stansted Airport at about 3:30 a.m.; airport fire crews quickly extinguished the blaze but heavy smoke forced an evacuation and temporary closure of the departure lounge and security checkpoints. Security screening reopened around 6 a.m., but the closure created a significant backlog that caused widespread flight delays and led some passengers to miss flights, with travellers complaining about poor communication. Airport officials said the fire was small, there were no reported injuries, and the cause is under investigation. The disruption was compounded by unrelated rail signalling problems and early-morning road delays on the M11 and M25, with Greater Anglia warning of continued impacts and arranging alternative buses. Airlines and the airport urged passengers to check flight status and allow extra time while operations recover.