Fire breaks out in Jacksonville Airport Parking Garage: Live updates and travel impact

At Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), there was a fire in the hourly parking garage that caused the airport to temporarily close and delays to flights. The Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department (JFRD) was quickly able to respond to help extinguish the fire and maintain safety for the public.

Thick smoke was rolling out of the garage and, as such, the emergency department evacuated the area and travelers were understandably frightened. The emergency department set up a perimeter, and the airport was inactive, so firefighters could perform their duties. The public was advised to stay away from the area and to monitor social media and/or the airport's web page for future information.

ALSO SEE: Historic Nottoway Plantation goes up in flames. What We know about the massive fire

Investigation ongoing as fire threatens $92M Parking expansion at Jacksonville Airport

The cause of the fire is still being investigated, and officials have not said if the fire so far is being classified as accidental or intentional at this time. To this point, there have been no injuries reported; however, inspecting the parking garage facility will be completed to verify if there was any structural damage to the building.

Concerns have arisen regarding the airport's infrastructure, particularly with its recent plans to build a key part of its plans for a new airport: a $92 million, 2,000-vehicle space parking structure. Now, officials are reviewing whether this fire may affect or delay their plans.

ALSO SEE: Memorial Day 2025 in the U.S.: When is it celebrated and What does it honor?

Flight delays Mount as Jacksonville Airport remains closed after Garage fire incident

Passengers are also experiencing significant disruption with many flights delayed and cancelled. Both impacted airlines and the airport, which has set up assistance centers where people can ask questions about their travel plans, will do their best to work with them. Passengers are advised to confirm up-to-date information with their individual airlines regarding flight updates.

As the ongoing situation unfolds, officials are monitoring the area for safety and for a full assessment of damage. The airport will remain closed until further notice and is urging the public to keep the airport area clear for emergency responders to operate. We will provide further updates as we continue to learn more.

ALSO SEE: Supreme Court blocks Trump’s attempt to deport Venezuelan Migrants under Alien Enemies Act

Cooling Buses help stranded travelers after Jacksonville Airport Parking Garage fire and closure

At least 50 vehicles were caught up in the fire, but thankfully no injuries were reported. Firefighters were able to extinguish the blaze while officials began investigating the cause and assessing the structural integrity of the garage. The airport was able to reopen at 5 p.m., but the hourly parking garage is still closed to allow for the structural examination.

In the meantime, city buses were brought in to assist the travelers stranded at the airport, giving them a cool place to sit and plan their next steps while temperatures were hitting an all-time high of 97°F. "All of these people walking out with luggage, they actually do have a place to go to make their plan about what they are going to do," told Deegan. The rental car return has temporarily been relocated to deal with the situation, which emphasizes what the city is doing for passengers while they were caught up in this unexpected situation.