Interim report into Heathrow power outage after fire to be published
This disrupted more than 270,000 air passenger journeys.
Stranded passengers at Heathrow Terminal 5 (James Manning/PA)
In the immediate aftermath of the fire, the National Energy System Operator was ordered by Energy Secretary Ed Miliband to investigate what happened and provide its initial findings within six weeks.
The interim report will focus on 'establishing the timeline and sequence of events of the outage, explain the roles and responsibilities of the key stakeholders involved, and outline areas of further investigation required to deliver the final report by the end of June 2025', NESO said.
Last month MPs were told Heathrow Airport had been warned about its power supply in the days before the incident.
Nigel Wicking, chief executive of Heathrow Airline Operators Committee, which represents airlines that use the west London airport, said a 'couple of incidents' had made him concerned.
He told the Transport Select Committee that he spoke to the Team Heathrow director on March 15 about his power concerns, and the chief operating officer and chief customer officer on March 19.
He said: 'It was following a couple of incidents of, unfortunately, theft of wire and cable around some of the power supply that, on one of those occasions, took out the lights on the runway for a period of time.
'That obviously made me concerned and, as such, I raised the point I wanted to understand better the overall resilience of the airport.'
North Hyde electrical substation (Jonathan Brady/PA)
Heathrow insisted after the hearing that Mr Wicking was referring to matters which had 'no relation' to the North Hyde substation which caught fire.
An airport source said: 'To draw a comparison between these incidents is irresponsible.'
Mr Wicking said the shutdown cost airlines £60 million to £100 million.
Heathrow is Europe's largest airport, with more than 83.9 million passengers travelling through its terminals in 2024.
This was thought to be the worst disruption at Heathrow since December 2010 when thousands of Christmas getaway passengers camped in the terminals because of widespread cancellations caused by snow.
In April that year, air travel was grounded across Europe because of an ash cloud caused by a volcanic eruption in Iceland.
The NESO North Hyde Review Interim Report will be published at 7am on Thursday.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Daily Mail
17 hours ago
- Daily Mail
I'm a travel expert - how paying extra for lounge access could actually SAVE you money at the airport
Airport expenses can quickly blow through travellers' budgets before the trip has started - from inflated food and beverage costs, parking and drop-off charges, and even terminal user fees. But according to travel experts at eShores, you could be forking out more on one meal and drinks in the terminal than on a single pass for lounge access. The specialists say holidaymakers are wasting money on 'unnecessary' flight add-ons, including early boarding and seat selections. Instead of splurging on costly add-ons, they advise travellers to instead splash out on extras that will improve their travel experience, such as lounge access and fast-track security. From pre-booked airport transfers to seat selection fees that might not be worth the extra cost, here's what holidaymakers should prioritise when catching flights this summer. The travel add-ons to buy 1. Lounge pass According to experts at eShore, many travellers spend an eye-watering amount on a main meal and a couple of drinks at the terminal, which averages just over £38 at Heathrow. According to travel experts at eShores, you could be forking out more on one meal and drinks in the terminal than on a single pass for lounge access. However, access to an airport lounge typically costs around £30 to £45 per person - with some providers offering luxe for less from just £26. Holidaymakers who are partial to an airport coffee, meal and drinks can save a substantial amount by investing in a lounge pass - and enjoy extra perks, such as free-WiFi, charging points and snacks, too. 2. Fast track security Fast-track security is a dedicated, private lane that offers a reduced wait time at security checkpoints, allowing passengers to make their way to the departure lounge quicker. During peak summer travel, security queues at major UK airports, such as Heathrow or Manchester, can cost travellers 45 to 60 minutes of their time. At Manchester Airport, travellers who invest in fast-tracking security can reduce their wait time to under 10 minutes for around £7 per person, which is especially beneficial for those flying with young children or during school holidays. 3. Day trip excursions Booking organised day trip abroad, especially in nations with close borders, offers several benefits, such as the opportunity to visit multiple destinations for less. Access to an airport lounge typically costs around £30 to £45 per person - with some providers offering luxury for less from just £26 Some guided tours start as low as £50 and can include meals and transport, which offers a way to experience another country without forking out on separate accommodation and flights. 4. Pre-booked airport transfer Pre-booking airport transfers saves time, money, and hassle, as it offers fixed pricing, guaranteed availability, and peace of mind. In major European cities, a taxi on arrival can exceed £100, while pre-booked options, whether it's a shuttle or public transport, can cost around £5 to £15 per person The travel add-ons to ditch 1. Early boarding According to eShore experts, early boarding 'rarely' offers a real advantage, as holidaymakers are essentially shelling out up to £10 per person to sit on a stationary plane for longer. They add: 'Early boarding doesn't guarantee faster departure times; you'll still disembark in the same order. 'Unless you have mobility needs or are travelling with very young children, it's money better spent on your actual holiday.' 2. Seat selection Budget airlines can charge up to £25 to choose where you sit on the plane - but these fees are one of the many ways low-cost carriers make money while keeping flight fees as low as possible. Some airlines will make a conscious effort to seat people on the same booking together, but others may randomly place travellers on near-opposite ends of the plane unless they cough up the cash. They added: 'But for short-haul flights under two hours, for many people, being separated isn't the end of the world (and might even mean a bit of quiet time). 'Unless you're flying with young children or sitting with your travel companion is a must, this is an easy cost to skip.' 3. Checked bag for short breaks For days-long trips or weekend breaks, paying £25 to £50 for checked baggage is likely to be a waste. In fact, many travellers will find they overpack for short breaks and end up paying for luggage they don't really need. The experts add: 'With smart packing techniques (think compression cubes and versatile outfits), everything you need for a long weekend or week-long city break can easily fit in hand luggage.' It comes after.
Time Out
19 hours ago
- Time Out
The FAA just extended the Newark Airport mess through the end of 2025
Just when you thought the turbulence at Newark Liberty International Airport might clear up, spoiler alert: It's sticking around through 2025. The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed on Friday that flight caps at the embattled New Jersey airport will continue into next year in an effort to ease congestion and prevent the travel chaos that's plagued travelers since spring. Starting June 16, Newark will limit arrivals and departures to 34 per hour through October 25. Then, beginning Labor Day weekend, weekend flights will face even stricter caps of just 28 per hour from Friday night through Sunday until the end of the year—including the Thanksgiving and Christmas crunch. These changes come after a nightmarish season of delays and cancellations caused by a perfect storm of problems: an aging radar system, chronic staffing shortages at the Philadelphia air traffic control center (which now oversees Newark) and a two-month runway shutdown that only wrapped early last week. Six controllers even went on trauma leave during the worst of it. Fun! Despite the FAA's early spring attempt to minimize delays, the initial plan 'was quite insufficient,' aviation analyst Jason Rabinowitz told Gothamist. Now, they're playing catch-up with tech upgrades and more structured flight schedules. Some good news: That notorious runway rebuild finished nearly two weeks early, thanks to extra shifts and late-night asphalt marathons. And the FAA is finally modernizing outdated infrastructure by replacing 90 miles of copper cables with new fiber-optic lines, which Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy says could go live by July if testing goes smoothly. The agency is also boosting staffing at the Philadelphia TRACON center and looking to install a new backup air traffic system to keep Newark in the loop, even if things go haywire. Still, while you might be able to score a cheap flight deal, none of this means Newark will be running at full speed anytime soon. The FAA's order, which followed public input and coordination with airlines, aims to stabilize operations and keep the airspace safe and functional. But if you're flying in or out of Newark this year, consider packing your patience. Because until that new tech is humming and staffing levels are 'very healthy' (FAA's words, not ours), the only thing arriving on time at Newark might be your frustration.
Scotsman
21 hours ago
- Scotsman
Christmas at the Botanics returns, promising new lights, enchanting sounds and a touch of romance
Festive fans can get a head start on the season as tickets go on sale for one of Scotland's most popular winter attractions – Christmas at the Botanics. Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Now in its ninth year, the beloved light trail will once again bring winter magic to the season, transforming the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh into an immersive world of light, colour, and festive cheer. Last year, the trail welcomed over 92,000 visitors – confirming its status as a must-see festive experience in Scotland's capita Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Running from November 20 to December 30, this year's trail will run for 36 nights, featuring three dedicated quiet nights. These offer a more relaxed and accessible environment for those who prefer a calmer atmosphere, allowing everyone to experience the wonder. Capture the love this festive season by snapping a picture in the Heart Arch Walk. This year's after-dark spectacle invites visitors to explore both new bespoke installations and returning fan favourites. Among them are the cherished Santa sightings and iconic Christmas Cathedral, which will feature an enchanting new twinkle effect. New installations confirmed for 2025 include: Night Birds – featuring a flock of five oversized birds that spread their brilliant neon-lit feathers wide to illuminate the night sky. Created by Michael Young. Heart Arch Walk – a tunnel of love made from large LED hearts that set the Christmas mood with a jolly red glow, creating another perfect picture spot on the trail. Created by ArtAV. Night Birds soar above, spreading their neon-lit wings across the dark winter sky. Laser Lights – displaying thousands of slowly rotating coloured laser beams that burst through an atmospheric fog, this installation brings a truly immersive experience to the trail. Created by Culture Creative. Each piece has been curated not only for its visual impact but also for its low-energy design and environmental sensitivity to the Botanics' historic surroundings. Regius Keeper of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Simon Milne said: 'Each year, our trail organisers work tirelessly to transform our Garden into an exciting nocturnal showcase, and this year is no exception. Visitors can experience the Garden from a fresh perspective, discovering new artistic installations and cherished favourites amongst our incredible collection of plants. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'Every ticket sold for Christmas at the Botanics supports our vital work in conservation, research and education, helping us to protect the world's plants for future generations. If you're looking for outdoor fun with friends and family this winter, join us on the trail and immerse yourself in the festivities while making a difference.' The immersive Laser Lights shoot colourful beams through theatrical fog effects. Tickets for this year's show are on sale now. With limited slots and popular dates expected to sell out, early booking is strongly advised to avoid disappointment. For further ticket information, pricing, and timings, please visit Christmas at the Botanics is one of 12 illuminated trails staged across the UK by leading events promoter Raymond Gubbay Limited, a division of Sony Music. Christmas at the Botanics is presented in partnership with the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and creative producer Culture Creative. For more details visit and follow @mychristmastrails on Facebook and Instagram.
