Panic swept through the departures hall of Lamezia Terme International Airport in southern Italy on Tuesday as a fierce fire sent thick, acrid smoke billowing through the terminal, triggering a mass evacuation.
The blaze, which erupted in the early afternoon, is believed to have started within the ceiling structure of the check-in area. Terrified passengers, including a significant number of British holidaymakers, were forced to abandon their luggage and flee onto the tarmac as alarms blared and emergency crews descended on the scene.
Chaotic scenes unfolded as thick black smoke rapidly filled the building, obscuring visibility and causing widespread alarm. Videos captured by fleeing tourists show people running for exits and crowds gathering on the runway, a safe distance from the terminal building.
Travel Plans Thrown Into Chaos
The incident caused immediate and severe disruption to air travel. The airport, a key gateway to the popular regions of Calabria, was forced to suspend all operations indefinitely. Dozens of flights, both departures and arrivals, were unceremoniously cancelled or faced major delays, stranding thousands of passengers.
"We heard a loud bang and then saw smoke coming from the ceiling. Everyone just started running. It was absolutely terrifying," recounted one British tourist awaiting a flight back to the UK. "We were just told to get out immediately, leaving all our bags behind."
Emergency Response and Investigation
Firefighters from multiple units raced to the airport and successfully contained the blaze, preventing it from spreading further into the terminal building. Their swift action was credited with avoiding any serious injuries, though several individuals were treated at the scene for smoke inhalation and shock.
An investigation into the precise cause of the fire is now underway. Initial reports from local authorities suggest the most likely cause was an electrical fault within the ceiling void. Airport officials have stated that a full damage assessment must be completed before the terminal can be deemed safe to reopen.
The event serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of travel hubs and has left countless tourists facing significant uncertainty and logistical nightmares as they await news on when they can finally continue their journeys.
