According to Aaj News, a fire erupted in the lounge area of Lahore airport, causing chaos and disrupting numerous international flights, including the first Hajj trips.
Emergency responders acted swiftly to contain the flames, preventing any harm to individuals. However, the fire, which started from the ceiling of the immigration counter, filled the lounge with smoke, leading to the evacuation of passengers.
Aaj News aired images showing billowing smoke, illustrating the chaotic scene at Lahore airport. A specialized team has been dispatched to investigate the cause of the fire, and airport authorities have reported significant damage to the immigration counter.
The incident’s impact rippled through flight schedules, resulting in delays for the first Hajj departure and five other international flights. Qatar Airways flight QR 629 was one of the affected flights.
Despite concerns about immigration procedures, incoming international flights continued to land at Lahore airport without any diversions. Airport authorities did not declare an emergency, indicating their efforts to handle the situation.
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) assured the public that international flights were being managed from the domestic departure lounge. The situation, caused by a short circuit, was brought under control by early morning.
Currently, Hajj and international flights are using domestic facilities. Regular domestic flight operations are expected to resume soon. The spokesperson emphasized the importance of smooth immigration procedures for arriving flights to minimize disruptions after the incident, as reported by Aaj News.