M1 crash near Luton Airport blocks motorway and delays drivers for hours
One carriageway remains closed after a multi-vehicle collision north of junction 10
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A crash on the M1 motorway northbound has closed one carriageway near Luton Airport, causing severe delays for drivers. The collision, involving multiple vehicles, occurred between junctions 9 and 10 at 07:45 on 12 October 2024.
National Highways confirmed the incident and said recovery teams were on scene. The motorway is expected to remain closed until at least 14:00, with traffic diverted via the A5 and A414. Drivers heading towards Hemel Hempstead have been advised to avoid the area.
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Delays spread to local roads
Traffic congestion has built up on surrounding routes, including the A505 and A5. Local drivers reported delays of up to 45 minutes on alternative roads. National Highways urged motorists to check traffic updates before travelling.
Luton Airport said flights were operating as scheduled. A spokesperson told *This Is Local London* that the crash had not affected airport operations, but passengers travelling by road should allow extra time. No injuries have been confirmed.
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National Highways will close sections of the motorway between junctions 15 and 31 for resurfacing work
What happens next
National Highways will reopen the motorway once recovery and investigations are complete. Drivers can check real-time updates on the National Highways website or via traffic apps. Diversions will remain in place until the carriageway is cleared.
Questions this report answers
+How long will the M1 be closed?
National Highways expects the M1 northbound to remain closed until at least 14:00 on 12 October 2024. Recovery teams are working to clear the scene, but delays may continue after the road reopens.
+Are flights at Luton Airport affected?
Luton Airport said flights are operating as normal. The crash has not disrupted airport services, but passengers travelling by road may face delays due to diversions and congestion.
+What is the best alternative route?
National Highways is diverting traffic via the A5 and A414. Drivers should expect delays of up to 45 minutes and check traffic updates before travelling to avoid further congestion.
+Has anyone been injured in the crash?
No injuries have been confirmed. National Highways and emergency services are at the scene, but details about casualties have not been released.
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The London Travel Desk assembled this report from the outlets listed below. Language-model drafting is reviewed under human editorial supervision, with scoring notes and corrections kept visible.
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