### Heathrow Airport's Troubles: How a Power Outage Disrupted Global Travel Plans

#### Thousands faced chaotic alternative arrangements, from rebooking flights to unexpected detours.

The recent closure of Heathrow Airport due to a major power outage has created turmoil for travelers heading to various destinations around the world. The shutdown disrupted flights and left thousands stranded at one of the busiest airports, as travelers embarked on journeys for personal moments like weddings, funerals, and family vacations.

Among those affected was Roxanna Bagherzadeh, who found herself unable to celebrate the Persian New Year with family in London due to her flight from New York being delayed indefinitely. Many others, including children on school trips and musicians, faced uncertainty about missing special events or performances.

Flight cancellations and rerouting became the norm as airlines scrambled to accommodate the vast number of affected passengers. Some flights, already midair, had to turn back, while others were redirected to alternate airports across Europe, including Madrid and Montreal.

Plans for lifelong memories were shattered. Kevin Black, a musician who intended to propose to his girlfriend under the romantic Parisian sunset, watched in despair as her flight turned back to Nashville. “It’s disheartening," Black said. "I wanted to make this moment special, but now it’ll just be a regular day in Tennessee.”

With the fallout from this unexpected closure still unfolding, travelers are left to piece together their plans amidst the chaos.