A fire in a departure lounge is causing delays at London Stansted Airport, with passengers warned to check if their flight is affected.
Footage on social media saw passengers leaving the terminal early this morning after a blaze in the Escape Lounge.
London Stansted issued a statement on social media at 6.30am to announce that passengers were being ushered through security as the departure lounge reopened, although waiting times are expected to increase.
“Following the fire in our Escape Lounge earlier this morning, the departure lounge is now open and passengers are being processed through security, though waiting times may be longer than usual in the circumstances.
“Flights were not suspended and both departures and arrivals are operating. Some flights may be subject to delays and passengers are advised to check with their airlines.
“We thank all the passengers for their patience as we ensured the terminal was safe for them to re-enter.”
Footage on social media showed the chaos as crowds sought to leave the airport following the fire announcement.
Already the departures board for the busy airport shows delays up to an hour, with the 10.10an Jet2 plane heading to Lanzarote-Arrecife set to depart at 11.10am instead. Other Jet2 flights, including the 11am journey to Paphos and the 11.25am Zakynthos plane, also face hour-long delays.
As well as delayed departures and arrivals, those hoping to get to Stansted for their travels will face further difficulties as trains are unable to call at the airport due to a fault with the signalling system, according to National Rail. Disruption is expected to continue until 9.30am.
The Independent has contacted Essex Fire & Rescue services for comment.
