A major security scare unfolded at Milan’s Malpensa Airport after a man deliberately set fire to the check-in area, causing chaos and disruption for hundreds of passengers. The incident occurred on Tuesday morning in Terminal 1, Italy’s second-busiest airport, which serves as a key international hub for both business and leisure travelers.
According to local authorities, the suspect entered the departure hall carrying a small container of flammable liquid. Witnesses reported seeing the man pour the substance near the check-in counters before igniting it, sending flames and thick smoke across the area. Panic quickly spread as travelers rushed to escape, leaving behind luggage and belongings.
Emergency services, including firefighters and airport security, responded within minutes. The blaze was contained before it could spread to other sections of the terminal, but significant damage was reported to several check-in counters and parts of the floor. No fatalities occurred, though at least nine people suffered from smoke inhalation and minor injuries during the evacuation.
The suspect was apprehended shortly after the attack. Police confirmed that he is a 37-year-old Italian national with a history of mental health issues and prior minor offenses. Investigators have ruled out terrorism at this stage, describing the act as intentional but isolated. The man is now in custody and facing charges of arson and endangering public safety.
The incident caused widespread disruption at Malpensa, with dozens of flights delayed or diverted to other airports, including Milan Linate and Bergamo Orio al Serio. Hundreds of passengers were forced to wait for hours as authorities worked to clear smoke and assess damage. Airport officials later reopened sections of the terminal, but advised travelers to check flight statuses before heading to the airport.
Italy’s Interior Ministry released a statement praising the swift actions of firefighters and airport staff, noting that their quick intervention prevented what could have been a far more serious disaster. Security at Malpensa has been temporarily heightened, with additional patrols and baggage checks put in place.
For passengers, the scare was a stark reminder of vulnerabilities in crowded public spaces. Several travelers described the scene as chaotic, with parents clutching children as alarms rang and smoke spread across the hall. One passenger, en route to London, said: “It felt like something you see in the movies. Everyone was just running in every direction.”
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While normal operations gradually resumed later in the day, the event has sparked renewed debate over airport security and mental health monitoring. Authorities have promised a full review of safety procedures to ensure incidents like the Milan Malpensa airport fire are not repeated.
