A major security alert triggered a full-scale evacuation at Dublin Airport on Sunday afternoon, throwing travel plans into disarray for thousands of passengers during a busy weekend period.
The alarm was raised shortly after 3:30 PM, prompting airport authorities to immediately initiate emergency protocols. Security staff and An Garda Síochána swiftly moved to clear Terminal 1, directing a steady stream of travellers out of the building.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of confusion and growing queues as passengers were forced to abandon check-in and security procedures. The evacuation caused significant knock-on effects, with numerous departing flights facing lengthy delays and arriving passengers experiencing extended waits to collect their luggage.
Passenger Frustration Mounts Amidst Uncertainty
Social media was quickly flooded with accounts from frustrated travellers caught up in the disruption. Many shared images and videos of large crowds gathering outside the terminal building, unsure of when they would be able to continue their journeys.
One passenger tweeted, "Absolute chaos at Dublin Airport. Entire terminal evacuated. No idea what's happening or when we'll get moving." Another described the scene as "a total mess" with a distinct lack of official information being provided in the initial stages.
Official Response and Investigation Underway
In an official statement, a spokesperson for Dublin Airport confirmed that the evacuation was a "precautionary measure" following a standard security procedure. They assured the public that safety remained their utmost priority.
An Garda Síochána attended the scene to assess the situation. The nature of the specific security concern that prompted the drastic action has not been fully disclosed, as is standard protocol during ongoing investigations.
By late afternoon, authorities began the process of gradually re-admitting passengers into the terminal. However, the major incident served as a stark reminder of the fragile nature of modern air travel and the severe disruption that security alerts can cause.
