JACKSONVILLE, FL – In a dramatic incident that unfolded at Jacksonville International Airport, a massive fire swept through the airport’s primary parking garage on Friday, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The blaze, which left several dozen vehicles completely charred and many others damaged, has forced airport authorities to grapple with significant logistical challenges just ahead of the busy Memorial Day travel period.
Photos released by the airport on social media show the extent of the devastation, with rows of cars reduced to skeletal remains. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the structural integrity of parts of the garage has been compromised due to the fire.
Travelers with vehicles parked in the garage remain in a state of uncertainty, as there is currently no timeline for when it will be deemed safe to retrieve their cars. The airport is now operating without its main parking facility, which has led to a reconfiguration of available parking options for passengers.
In response to the crisis, the airport has opened its economy lot, which remains the only on-site parking option available. However, officials caution that this lot is expected to fill up quickly. Signs around the airport are directing passengers to consider off-site parking alternatives, including facilities like USA Park, Park EZ, and Wally Park, which offer shuttle services to the terminal.
Airport officials are encouraging travelers to explore rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft or arrange for drop-offs and pick-ups to alleviate the parking strain. The disruption has already impacted passengers, with some returning from trips unable to access their vehicles.
One traveler, returning from a conference in Las Vegas, shared their experience of having to rely on an Uber due to the unavailability of their car. Others with upcoming travel plans are preemptively securing spots in off-site lots to avoid complications.
Airport officials are actively assessing the damage and have begun the task of clearing collapsed areas. They anticipate that by the end of the week, some sections of the garage may be deemed safe for limited access. However, the emphasis remains on safety, and the timeline for full restoration of the facility is still uncertain.
As the situation develops, airport authorities are working diligently to minimize disruption and ensure the safety and convenience of all travelers. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges that can arise unexpectedly, requiring swift and effective crisis management.