This afternoon, May 16, 2025, Jacksonville Airport turned into a scene of chaos as a fire erupted in the Hourly Garage, forcing a full closure of the facility. Smoke billowed from the parking structure, grounding flights and stranding thousands of passengers. The Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department (JFRD) battled the blaze, while the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) blocked all road access to the airport. With no injuries reported and the fire now under control, travelers are left wondering what comes next. Let’s break down the latest drama at Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), from the fire’s impact to ongoing expansions and other recent headlines.
Jacksonville Airport Fire: A Disruptive Blaze
Around noon today, flames sparked in the Hourly Garage, sending thick smoke across the airport grounds. JFRD quickly responded, containing the fire, but not before structural damage hit the garage, according to Michael Stewart, Jacksonville Aviation Authority’s vice president of external affairs. The airport shut down, with all inbound flights held at their origins until at least 1:30 p.m., per FlightAware. Social media buzzed with frustration—posts on X showed travelers stuck in terminals, while others shared videos of smoke pouring out. By 2 p.m., JFRD declared the fire under control, but the airport remains closed as officials assess the damage. No timeline for reopening has been confirmed, leaving passengers scrambling.
Jacksonville Airport’s Big Plans Amid the Chaos
Despite today’s setback, Jacksonville Airport has been gearing up for growth. Last month, the airport announced Concourse B, adding six new gates to its existing 20 by late 2026. A $92 million, 2,000-space parking garage is also in the works to handle rising demand. Michael Stewart noted the region’s growth as a key driver, with new routes like a nonstop to Akron-Canton added this summer. However, recent data shows a 3% drop in March passengers compared to 2024, hinting at challenges. JetBlue’s decision to cut its nonstop to Fort Lauderdale in April didn’t help. Still, JAX aims to keep expanding to meet Northeast Florida’s needs.
Recent Headlines and Safety Wins
JAX has made headlines beyond the fire. Last week, Action News Jax got exclusive access to the airfield, showcasing efforts to curb bird strikes, which hit 120 since 2023. The FAA recommends keeping grass at 6-12 inches to deter birds, and JAX is nailing it. On April 30, a Delta Boeing 757 safely returned to JAX after a flap issue, with no injuries among the 176 passengers. These incidents highlight JAX’s focus on safety, even as today’s fire tests its resilience.
What’s Next for Travelers?
- Fire Impact: Expect delays and cancellations; check with airlines for updates.
- Travel Tips: Arrive early for flights once JAX reopens, as parking may be limited.
- Future Growth: New gates and routes signal more options by 2027.
Today’s fire was a curveball, but Jacksonville Airport’s growth plans and safety focus show it’s built for the long haul. Stay patient, travelers—this too shall pass.
Facing delays at Jacksonville Airport? Check FlightAware for real-time updates and share your travel stories in the comments!