Preventing Aviation Fires: How Thermal CCTV Monitoring Can Safeguard UK Aviation Businesses
The Rising Threat of Fires in UK Aviation
The UK aviation sector has faced significant challenges recently, with two notable fires highlighting the need for robust fire prevention. On 20 March 2025, a fire at an electrical substation in Hayes disrupted Heathrow Airport, causing a power outage that halted flights and affected thousands. On 13 April 2025, a car burst into flames at Gatwick Airport’s North Terminal car park, blocking access and raising safety concerns. These incidents show that fire risks threaten not just airports but the wider aviation industry, including maintenance hangars, logistics hubs, and fuel storage facilities.
For aviation businesses, the stakes are high. A fire can lead to costly downtime, asset loss, and reputational damage. The need for early fire detection has never been clearer.
ControlFreq: A Game-Changer in Fire Prevention
At ControlFreq, we provide a state-of-the-art thermal CCTV monitoring solution that detects temperature anomalies in real time. Designed for high-risk environments, our system uses thermal imaging to spot potential fire hazards before they ignite. Whilst it’s currently being trialled at Heathrow Airport to monitor EV charging docks, its benefits extend to all aviation businesses seeking to enhance safety and protect assets.
How Thermal CCTV Monitoring Works
Our solution combines advanced technology with practical applications:
Thermal Imaging: Detects temperature changes across multiple zones, identifying risks like overheating equipment or electrical faults.
Real-Time Alerts: Sends instant notifications via SMS, voice call, or email, allowing swift action.
Cloud-Based Monitoring: Logs all events securely, providing detailed insights and live imaging.
This technology could have made a difference in the recent fires. At Heathrow, it might have detected overheating at the substation, whilst at Gatwick, it could have flagged the car’s rising temperature before flames erupted.
Benefits for Aviation Businesses
Aviation businesses—beyond just airports—can reap significant advantages from early fire detection:
Asset Protection: Safeguard expensive machinery, aircraft parts, and infrastructure.
Operational Continuity: Minimise disruptions and keep operations running smoothly.
Safety and Compliance: Meet strict regulations and potentially lower insurance costs.
Whether you manage a hangar, a cargo facility, or a fuel depot, our thermal CCTV monitoring offers peace of mind and proactive protection.