Absolute CHAOS at Stansted Airport with hundreds stranded after 'power surge'

Breaking Mass disruption at Stansted Airport due to reported power outage (Image: Stansted Airport) This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.

Passengers at Stansted Airport have been left stranded after reports of mass disruption caused by a power outage. Holidaygoers have been pictured across social media queuing for security and baggage with huge crowds forming. The airport has confirmed the issue was caused by a "power surge".

One traveller took to X calling it a "total systemic collapse" showing hundreds of people facing severe delays. Total systemic collapse at Stansted Airport due to a power cut last night. Luggage belts not working, security clearing at a fraction of its usual operating speed.

No guarantee I will see my luggage again today or even make my flight (in 2 hours). Staff explaining nothing at all. https://t.co/DVBOfwcv1d — @Northbanksy (@northbanksyafc) October 25, 2026 A spokesperson for Stansted Airport said : “Due to an earlier power surge that has affected the airport and local area, a number of airport systems were temporarily impacted.

“While most systems are now back in operation, some remain affected and not operating to full capacity, including security and baggage systems. This mess is Stansted Airport, in the so called first world. Imagine if this were Iran , the media would be full of headlines and debates.

Double standards, as always. https://t.co/AfNFWPaxGz — Sama 🎒 (@Sa_karoubi) October 25, 2026 “Teams are working hard to restore all services and support passengers on their journeys through the airport.” Replying to a customer on their X page, a Stansted Airport spokesperson said: "Our teams are working hard to restore normal operations and get passengers on their way as soon as possible.

"If your flight starts boarding, please flag down a member of staff."