After a widespread power outage shut down London Heathrow Airport on Friday, American, Delta, United, JetBlue, and Virgin Atlantic responded by issuing travel waivers that allow passengers to rebook flights without change fees, switch travel dates, adjust destinations within network options, or request refunds. Each airline rolled out tailored policies—some offering extended rebooking windows, others permitting reroutes through nearby cities—all aimed at minimizing the disruption for thousands of affected travelers.
A major power outage at London Heathrow Airport on Friday forced hours-long disruptions and led to widespread flight cancellations and delays. In response, several major airlines have issued travel waivers and flexible rebooking options to assist affected travelers.
The outage, caused by a large fire at a nearby electrical substation, impacted operations across all terminals, bringing Europe’s busiest airport to a standstill. Though some flights have resumed, recovery is ongoing—and airlines are working fast to accommodate disrupted passengers.
Here’s how each carrier is responding:
American Airlines
American is waiving change fees for passengers scheduled to fly to or from London Heathrow on March 21 or 22, as long as the ticket was purchased by March 20. Eligible travelers can rebook their trip between March 22 and 26 without paying extra, provided they keep the same destination and fare class. The new trip must be completed within one year of the original ticket’s purchase date. Fare differences apply if changes go beyond those conditions.
Delta Air Lines
Delta passengers can rebook without change fees for travel through March 26, staying in the same cabin and route as the original booking. If travelers are unable to reschedule under these conditions, they can cancel their flight and apply the value toward a new ticket, valid for one year from the purchase date.
United Airlines
United is allowing passengers to rebook flights departing between March 20 and 28. Travelers can switch to flights between the original cities or choose approved alternatives including Amsterdam, Brussels, Paris, or Edinburgh. Changes must stay within the same cabin class to avoid fare differences.
JetBlue Airways
JetBlue canceled all Heathrow departures and arrivals on Friday, warning that more cancellations could follow. The airline said it may add additional flights once the airport is fully operational, with priority given to affected customers.
Virgin Atlantic
Virgin is offering “flexible options” for disrupted travelers. Passengers can rebook on the next available flight, switch to a different date, or change their destination within Virgin’s network. Refunds are available for those who prefer to cancel their travel altogether.
Heathrow Responds
Airport officials have confirmed that recovery efforts are underway. “We’re pleased to say we’re now safely able to begin some flights later today,” a spokesperson said. Initial departures will include repatriation flights and aircraft repositioning.
After the Heathrow power outage, American, Delta, United, JetBlue, and Virgin Atlantic rolled out travel waivers offering free rebooking, flexible date changes, alternate routes, and refund options to support disrupted passengers.
As Heathrow gradually returns to normal operations, the swift response from major airlines has provided much-needed relief for thousands of travelers caught in the chaos. By rolling out travel waivers, rebooking flexibility, alternate routing options, and refund policies, carriers like American, Delta, United, JetBlue, and Virgin Atlantic have helped ease the burden on passengers facing unexpected disruptions. Still, as flight schedules continue to shift and recovery efforts unfold, travelers are strongly advised to stay in close contact with their airline and monitor updates before heading to the airport. Flexibility and patience remain key as the ripple effects of the outage continue to play out.
