A significant security incident is unfolding at Heathrow Airport, leading to a major emergency services response and severe travel disruption. Armed police have been deployed, key transport links are suspended, and passengers are being told to remain in their vehicles.
Emergency Response at Terminal 3
The incident is centred on Heathrow's Terminal 3. A substantial presence from the police, including a firearms unit, alongside ambulance and fire services, is understood to be in attendance. The entrance to the short-stay car park has been cordoned off, creating a major backlog of vehicles. Drivers are currently unable to leave the immediate vicinity or enter the drop-off zone.
Social media posts from the scene illustrate the scale of the response. One traveller, Fin Fraser, posted on X (formerly Twitter) stating they had been stuck for nearly an hour and that armed police were searching every car.
Widespread Transport Disruption
The incident has caused major knock-on effects for transport around the UK's busiest airport. The Heathrow tunnels are closed, and London Underground (LUL) services and the Elizabeth Line are suspended in the area. This is causing significant delays and cancellations for thousands of passengers.
Bus services have been particularly affected, with several routes trapped within the station perimeter. Drivers of these buses have been given explicit instructions not to leave their vehicles under any circumstances. The affected bus routes are: 105, 111, 278, 285, SL9, A10, SL7, and U3.
Ongoing Situation and Advice to Public
The incident, which began on the morning of Sunday, 7 December 2025, remains ongoing. Authorities are urging the public to avoid the area around Terminal 3 if possible. Passengers and drivers already at the scene are advised to follow official instructions from police and airport staff, primarily to stay inside their vehicles for their own safety while the situation is resolved.
The closure of the vital airport tunnels and the suspension of the Elizabeth Line, a key rail artery, underscores the seriousness of the event. Travelers are advised to check with their airline and Transport for London for the latest updates before attempting to journey to or from Heathrow Airport.
