Heathrow and Gatwick On High Alert Over RAAC Safety Fears
Heathrow and Gatwick Scramble Over Dangerous RAAC Material
Heathrow and Gatwick airports are on high alert after the recent school shutdowns linked to the crumbling building material RAAC (reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete). Both hubs had already found RAAC on site but are now ramping up safety checks amid growing public concern and media scrutiny.
Heathrow: RAAC Found in Terminal 3, Safety Measures Underway
Heathrow Airport confirmed it discovered RAAC inside Terminal 3 last year. The porous concrete is notorious for weakening and flaking, sparking alarm after similar findings in schools across the UK. Heathrow acted fast, putting containment measures in place and reviewing management plans to keep the terminal safe.
“We have been assessing our estate and will continue to mitigate the risk where this material is found,” a Heathrow spokesperson said, stressing their ongoing commitment to safety.
Gatwick Sees No Immediate Threat but Keeps Guard Up
Gatwick Airport says it has no urgent worries about RAAC but hasn’t let its guard down. Regular structural checks are underway at all spots where RAAC is present. A spokesperson reassured the public after the June inspection found no safety risks, promising continued close monitoring.
Manchester Airport Reports No RAAC, Final Checks Ongoing
Manchester Airport, meanwhile, has confirmed rigorous inspections show no trace of RAAC at its facilities. Additional sweeps are in progress to ensure the material isn’t lurking, but so far, they haven’t spotted any cause for alarm.
