Jacksonville Airport was abruptly shut down on May 16, 2025, after a massive fire erupted in the hourly parking garage. The unexpected blaze created panic among passengers and led to the suspension of all incoming and outgoing traffic. Thick smoke filled the air above the terminals as fire crews rushed to the scene to contain the flames.
The fire began in the early afternoon, catching both travelers and airport staff by surprise. The Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department quickly evacuated nearby areas while sealing off access to the airport. Fortunately, there were no reports of injuries, but the incident has brought attention to infrastructure concerns and the need for upgraded safety protocols.
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Jacksonville Airport Operations Temporarily Halted
The incident forced Jacksonville Airport to halt its operations temporarily. Flight delays and cancellations followed as passengers were asked to avoid the airport area until further notice. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office set up roadblocks to restrict access while damage assessments were underway.
Officials stated that the structural integrity of the parking garage may have been compromised. While the fire was contained within a few hours, it raised questions about the facility’s fire prevention systems and whether improvements were overdue.
The airport authority confirmed that investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the fire, with a focus on any electrical faults or flammable materials in parked vehicles.
Latest Updates from Jacksonville Airport Management
Here are the latest developments as of this morning:
- Airport closed to public access until safety inspections are complete.
- All flights from Jacksonville Airport either canceled or rerouted.
- Passengers urged to contact airlines for rescheduling.
- Parking garage remains cordoned off for safety evaluation.
- No injuries have been reported.
The airport’s crisis communication team is actively working with local media and authorities to share verified updates with the public.
Long-Term Plans at Jacksonville Airport Still in Motion
Interestingly, just last month, Jacksonville Airport had announced a major infrastructure upgrade, including the long-awaited Concourse B expansion. This $300 million project aims to add six more gates and expand passenger amenities to meet growing travel demands.
This week’s fire incident, however, may push back those timelines. Safety upgrades and garage reconstruction are likely to take priority in the coming months. Engineers and architects are expected to revise plans to include additional fireproofing measures across all structures.
Despite this setback, officials remain optimistic about Jacksonville Airport’s long-term vision, saying that the expansion is a “critical investment” in the region’s transportation future.
Jacksonville Airport Fire: What Passengers Should Know
If you were planning to fly from or to Jacksonville Airport this week, here are a few tips:
- Check your flight status online before heading to the airport.
- Use alternate airports like Orlando or Savannah for immediate travel needs.
- Rebook flights directly through your airline’s official website or helpline.
- Monitor local news for updates on reopening.
This sudden disruption is a reminder of how important airport emergency response systems are. It also emphasizes the need for travelers to always keep emergency plans in mind while flying.
Call to Action
Stay updated by following Jacksonville Airport’s official social media pages and local news outlets. If you’ve been affected by the recent fire, contact your airline directly to rebook your flight or seek compensation for delays. For safety reasons, avoid the airport premises until further notice.