A dramatic incident unfolded at Gatwick Airport when a vehicle erupted in flames at Car Park 6, with startling footage capturing the chaotic scene. The dark-coloured Volkswagen began emitting smoke as it approached an exit barrier, and moments later, it was engulfed in flames, with the sound of explosions ringing out as the intense heat caused its tyres to burst.
The incident garnered immediate attention, prompting one bystander, who remains anonymous, to describe the event as "traumatic." This witness recalled, "It was quite traumatic as it was a full-on blaze. People were screaming as the tyres were blowing out - and it sounded like explosions or gunshots. I saw the whole thing." They reported that the car began smoking once it pulled up to the barriers, igniting panic amongst onlookers.
In an act of bravery, a driver from a nearby AA van exited his vehicle with a fire extinguisher, attempting to control the situation. However, the fire escalated quickly, with the witness noting, "The smoke turned into flames and then the car erupted into a full blazing inferno. The pillar next to the car even started catching fire and burning." Fortunately, the witness believed that the driver managed to escape the vehicle before the situation intensified, although they could not confirm how many people were inside.
London Gatwick Airport's spokesperson confirmed the response to the incident, stating, “The airport Fire Service responded to a vehicle fire outside a North Terminal car park this afternoon. The fire has now been resolved." They further noted that access to the North Terminal was temporarily suspended during the emergency but has since been reopened.
Reports indicate significant destruction of the vehicle due to the fire, which has since been extinguished, highlighting the intensity of the blaze and the quick response from emergency services. The event occurred during a busy period at the airport, drawing the attention of various onlookers, including passengers and staff, as the situation unfolded.
Source: Noah Wire Services