Jacksonville International Airport Temporarily Closed Due to Parking Garage Fire – On Friday, May 16, 2025, Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) in Florida was temporarily closed following a significant fire that erupted in its Hourly Parking Garage. The blaze prompted the suspension of all flight operations, including both arrivals and departures, as emergency responders worked to contain the situation.
The fire broke out in the Hourly Parking Garage, a multi-level facility located adjacent to the terminal. Emergency services, including the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department (JFRD), responded promptly to the scene. According to airport spokesman Greg Willis, no injuries were reported. However, the exact cause of the fire remains undetermined, and officials have not yet assessed the full extent of the damage to the parking structure.
The closure of the parking garage led to the suspension of all flight operations at JAX. Airport authorities coordinated with airlines to manage the situation, aiming to minimize disruptions to travelers. While the terminal itself was not directly affected by the fire, the closure of the parking facility and surrounding road access created significant logistical challenges.
Emergency responders worked diligently to extinguish the blaze and secure the area. In a press conference held later in the day, Jacksonville Aviation Director Michael Stewart, JFRD Fire Chief Keith Powers, and Mayor Donna Deegan provided updates on the situation. They confirmed that approximately 50 vehicles were damaged in the fire, and structural damage to the garage was under evaluation. City officials announced plans to reopen the airport at 5 p.m. on the same day, contingent upon the completion of safety assessments and clearance from fire officials.
This incident underscores the vulnerability of airport infrastructure to unforeseen events such as fires. While no injuries were reported, the financial and operational impacts are significant. The damage to approximately 50 vehicles and potential structural repairs to the parking garage could result in substantial costs. Additionally, the temporary closure disrupted travel plans for numerous passengers, highlighting the importance of robust emergency preparedness and response strategies at transportation hubs.
The fire at Jacksonville International Airport’s Hourly Parking Garage serves as a reminder of the critical need for effective fire prevention measures and emergency response protocols in public facilities. While the immediate threat has been addressed and the airport is expected to reopen shortly, ongoing investigations will determine the cause of the fire and the full extent of the damage. Travelers are advised to stay informed through official airport channels for updates on the situation.
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