Heathrow Airport closure disrupts Taiwanese carriers

Taipei, March 21 (CNA) A massive power outage that forced the closure of London's Heathrow Airport on Friday has significantly disrupted flight operations, prompting Taiwanese airlines to adjust their schedules.

China Airlines reported that its flight CI081, which departed from Taoyuan at 9:05 a.m. for London, was forced to return mid-flight due to the shutdown.

EVA Airways also canceled its Bangkok-London service, flight BR67, scheduled to depart at 8:05 a.m., along with the return leg, BR68, from London to Bangkok.

The disruption stemmed from a fire at an electrical substation in Hayes, West London, which caused a widespread blackout at Heathrow Airport, grounding flights and leaving thousands of passengers stranded.

Reports indicate that over 1,300 flights have been affected as of press time, impacting approximately 145,000 travelers.

Officials have announced that Heathrow Airport will remain closed at least until 11:59 p.m. Friday and advised passengers to check with their airline before heading to the airport.