By [Your Name] | May 17, 2025
On Friday, May 16, 2025, a significant fire erupted in the Hourly Parking Garage at Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), leading to the temporary closure of the airport and affecting numerous travelers.(NewsX World)
🔥 Incident Overview
The fire began around noon on the second floor of the Hourly Garage, originating from a single vehicle and rapidly spreading to approximately 50 others. The blaze caused partial collapses on the second and third levels of the structure. Due to safety concerns, firefighters were unable to enter the garage and instead utilized drones to assess the situation. (WKMG, Wikipedia, WPTV News Channel 5 West Palm)
Table 1: Key Details of the Incident
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Time of Fire | Around 12:00 PM |
| Location | Hourly Parking Garage, JAX |
| Vehicles Damaged | Approximately 50 |
| Structural Damage | Partial collapse of 2nd and 3rd floors |
| Injuries Reported | None |
| Airport Reopening Time | 5:00 PM |
✈️ Impact on Airport Operations
The fire led to the suspension of all arrivals and departures at JAX. At least six incoming flights were diverted to other airports. The airport resumed operations at 5:00 PM, but the Hourly and Daily Garages remain closed. Travelers are advised to use alternative parking options and check with their airlines for updated flight information. (AP News, WJXT)
🚗 Adjustments for Rental Car Returns
Due to the closure of the Hourly Garage, rental car return locations have been temporarily relocated:(WJXT)
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Alamo/National, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Hertz, Thrifty: Rental Car Quick Turnaround areas on Rental Car Road.(WJXT)
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Enterprise: Staggerwing Road.(WJXT)
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Sixt: Aviation Authority Administration Office at 14201 Pecan Park Road.(WJXT)
Signage has been placed to guide travelers to these temporary locations. (WJXT)
🗣️ Reactions from Officials and Passengers
Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan stated that the fire started with a single vehicle and emphasized the importance of safety as the primary concern. (Jacksonville Today)
Passengers expressed frustration over the lack of information and the disruption to their travel plans. Some reported missed flights and challenges in retrieving their vehicles. (WJXT)
🔍 Ongoing Investigation
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Officials have reviewed surveillance footage showing the fire's origin but have not yet determined whether the initial vehicle was electric or gasoline-powered. (Jacksonville Today)
For a visual overview of the incident, you can watch the following news coverage:
Officials address Jacksonville airport parking garage fire