Massive Parking Garage Fire Shuts Down Jacksonville International Airport, Damages Dozens of Vehicles

A large fire that erupted in a parking structure at Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) on Friday afternoon led to extensive damage, major travel disruptions, and lingering safety concerns for passengers and city officials alike.

The blaze began around midday on the third level of the airport’s Hourly Parking Garage. Witnesses reported hearing several loud booms before flames and thick black smoke engulfed a significant portion of the structure. The fire rapidly spread to adjacent vehicles, reportedly damaging or destroying approximately 50 cars before it was brought under control by emergency responders.

Fire officials say the heat from the blaze compromised parts of the garage’s structural integrity, causing portions of the second and third floors to partially collapse. While no injuries were reported, the scale of the damage prompted the temporary closure of the entire airport, grounding flights and halting all road access for several hours.

Operations resumed around 5 p.m., though the parking structures affected by the fire remain closed pending inspection and structural assessments.

Travelers Left Scrambling

The incident caused widespread confusion among travelers. Dozens of flights were delayed, and several inbound planes were rerouted to alternate airports as fire crews worked to contain the inferno and assess the building’s stability.

Airport authorities have since advised passengers to check with airlines for rescheduled flight times and updated parking instructions. Long-term parking availability has been severely reduced, with nearly 2,000 spaces out of commission.

Investigators Probe the Cause

Preliminary reports suggest that the fire originated with a single vehicle, though the exact cause remains under investigation. Due to instability within the garage, inspectors are using drones and remote equipment to survey the interior safely.

Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department Chief Terrence Rivers noted that the intense heat and vehicle density contributed to the fire’s rapid escalation.

City Officials Monitor Fallout

Mayor Donna Deegan released a statement praising emergency personnel for their swift response and promising a thorough review of airport infrastructure and emergency planning.

Looking Ahead

In the aftermath of the blaze, city engineers and airport administrators are coordinating with structural experts to determine the long-term usability of the damaged garage. Travelers who believe their vehicles were affected are urged to contact the airport’s lost vehicle response line or visit the official website for guidance.

While the full cost of the damage is still being assessed, early estimates place losses in the millions. Insurance companies and airport vendors are also beginning to coordinate claims for affected property.

As Jacksonville International works to restore normal operations, travelers are encouraged to arrive early, use alternative transport options where possible, and monitor updates from the airport authority.