Thick smoke could be seen billowing from one of the JAX airport parking garages Friday afternoon.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) was closed and all flights were halted Friday afternoon due to a multi-vehicle fire in one of the parking garages.
First Coast News began receiving several calls around 12:30 p.m. about a fire at the airport. According to a JAX staff member, the fire involved multiple vehicles on the third level of the daily/hourly parking garage, which was 95% occupied at the time, as mentioned on the JAX website.
Access roads to the airport were also shut down while staff dealt with the situation. Jacksonville Fire and Rescue is currently on-site to evaluate the damage and determine the cause of the fire.
Mayor Donna Deegan is on her way to the airport to receive a briefing of the incident.
The airport posted the following message to Facebook:
“Due to a fire in the Hourly Garage, the airport is currently closed. JFRD is on-site working the issue. JSO has blocked inbound and outbound road access to the airport. Additional details will be forthcoming soon.”
City Councilman Reggie Gaffney Jr. released the following statement:
“I am closely monitoring the situation at Jacksonville International Airport, where a fire has broken out in the Hourly Garage. We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. The safety of our residents, travelers, and first responders is our top priority. I commend the swift action of the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office in responding to this incident.
As of now, the airport remains closed to ensure public safety. It will reopen once our first responders and relevant authorities have deemed it safe to do so. I urge everyone to stay informed through official channels and to follow any guidance provided by emergency personnel.
My office is in close communication with city agencies and airport officials to monitor the situation. We will provide updates as more information becomes available. In the meantime, I ask for your patience and cooperation as we work together to ensure the safety and well-being of all involved.”
