Travel chaos has erupted at one of the world's busiest airports after a major incident prompted a swift lockdown and armed police response.
Armed Police Make Arrests Amid Terminal Lockdown
Armed officers have made at least two arrests at Heathrow Airport following reports of an unknown substance being sprayed in the area. The incident, which unfolded on Saturday, 7th December 2025, led to the immediate lockdown of Terminal 3 as a precautionary measure.
Videos obtained by local media show a significant deployment of emergency services at the scene. Police have advised drivers in the vicinity not to leave their vehicles or open their windows while inspections are carried out.
Major Transport Disruption for Stranded Passengers
The security alert has caused severe knock-on effects for transport networks serving the airport. Rail services to and from Heathrow are expected to be suspended for several hours, leaving large numbers of passengers stranded on platforms awaiting further information.
Pictures from the scene depict crowded concourses as travellers face uncertainty and lengthy delays. The disruption is not limited to rail; significant congestion is also reported on the roads.
Road Chaos Adds to Travel Misery
Commuters and airport users are facing a double blow, with severe delays now affecting major road arteries. Massive tailbacks have been reported on the M4 motorway, specifically at Junction 4 westbound, adding to the travel chaos sparked by the airport incident.
The combination of the terminal lockdown, suspended rail links, and congested roads has created a perfect storm for travel disruption in West London. Authorities are urging people to avoid the area if possible and to check for updates before beginning any journeys to Heathrow.
This remains a developing situation, and further updates are expected throughout the day.
