A severe fire broke out at Jacksonville International Airport’s parking garage on May 16, engulfing approximately 50 vehicles and causing partial structural collapse, leading to a temporary suspension of airport operations.
According to authorities, the fire is believed to have originated from a car parked on the third floor of the multi-story car park before rapidly spreading to nearby vehicles. Footage from security cameras showed the intense blaze, leading to the collapse of parts of the third and fourth floors. Approximately 30 minutes later, a second collapse occurred, exacerbating the damage.
The Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department promptly responded to control the blaze, but the damage was extensive. Photos shared on social media depicted dozens of vehicles, including many SUVs, reduced to charred shells, leaving behind a blackened wreckage.
On May 18, the Jacksonville Aviation Authority confirmed that the parking area remained cordoned off for investigation and cleanup efforts. While no injuries were reported, the incident significantly impacted airport operations and passengers.
The affected parking garage is located directly across from the main terminal, accommodating short-term parking for approximately 1,200 vehicles. The first floor is designated for services such as rental car pickup and drop-off, while the upper and lower floors are used for passenger pickup and drop-off. The fire occurred during the garage’s regular operating hours, resulting in the loss of vehicles and personal belongings inside them.
Local insurance companies are reportedly preparing to handle dozens of compensation cases as the specific cause of the fire remains under investigation by authorities.
Jacksonville officials stated that the cleanup and repair work at the parking garage would extend over the coming weeks, significantly impacting passenger traffic in the area. Meanwhile, the airport has resumed operations but advised travelers to arrange alternative transportation due to the temporary closure of short-term parking.
The incident has raised concerns about fire safety in multi-story parking garages, particularly given the rapid increase in vehicle numbers and the lack of automatic fire prevention equipment in some areas.
TH (Tuoitrethudo)
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