A significant security incident erupted today at Milan's Malpensa Airport, with a man setting fire to a check-in area, leading to the partial evacuation of Terminal 1. Witnesses reported chaotic scenes as passengers fled, while video footage circulating on social media captured the desperate moments of the incident.
The fire broke out around 11:00 local time (09:00 GMT), prompting emergency services' swift response after alarm bells rang regarding an "agitated man" in the terminal. According to the Lombardy Airports Association, the situation has been brought under control, and a man has been arrested. However, the Association cautioned potential delays and cancellations affecting departures as they manage the aftermath of the fire.
Fortunately, as of this report, no injuries have been noted, according to the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera. Images shared from the scene depict extensive queues of passengers awaiting news outside the terminal while thick smoke billowed inside.
Firefighters were quick to extinguish the flames, but the spreading smoke necessitated the evacuation of the airport's check-in section for safety. Eyewitness accounts tell of a man apparently using a hammer to strike digital screens and advertising displays amidst the panic, before being restrained by other individuals on the scene.
As the airport returns to a state of normalcy, requests for comments have been sent to Malpensa Airport officials. The investigation into the motives behind this bizarre act remains ongoing.
