Malpensa evacuation after desk fire

A terminal at Malpensa Airport in Milan was evacuated after a check-in desk caught fire, prompting an emergency response.

Malpensa airport evacuated after desk fire

A terminal at Malpensa Airport in Milan was evacuated after a check-in desk caught fire on Wednesday morning. Video circulating on social media shows flames emerging from the desk in Terminal One as passengers and staff moved toward exits. Local media indicated that operations were not significantly disrupted.

Firefighters arrived quickly and controlled the scene. A fire service spokesperson said smoke forced the evacuation for safety reasons, but the affected area was made safe and air traffic continued with no major delays. Unconfirmed reports mentioned a man in a white shirt may have started the blaze, though authorities have not confirmed this.

The incident highlights how quickly a routine travel day can turn tense in a crowded hub. Even brief disruptions can ripple through schedules and traveler mood, underscoring the importance of clear, rapid communication from airport officials.

Officials face the challenge of balancing calm public messaging with thorough investigation. As investigators look into the cause, the event may prompt reviews of safety drills, crowd management, and how quickly airports can adapt if a similar scenario arises again, including potential effects on travelers, staff, and local businesses.

Highlights

Travel safety remains a priority for busy hubs