Overview
- A burst water main flooded trackside signalling equipment on the railway between Paddington and Heathrow, submerging control systems and blocking lines.
- The Elizabeth line is suspended between Hayes & Harlington and Heathrow and Heathrow Express services have stopped, while the Piccadilly line remains closed for planned engineering work, leaving no rail routes to the airport.
- Operators and Heathrow Airport have put in place rail-replacement buses and advised passengers to travel to Hayes & Harlington to continue by bus from Paddington, with specified bus bays at terminals for onward links.
- Heathrow Express and transport authorities described the problem as a significant incident outside their control and said engineers are working to dry and repair the flooded signalling before services can resume.
- The loss of main rail links increases the risk of missed flights and heavier road congestion, so passengers have been told to allow extra time and consider coach or bus alternatives.