Brisbane: Brisbane’s domestic airport was evacuated following a fault with a single metal detector, resulting in widespread delays and long queues as all passengers and staff were required to undergo re-screening.
Large crowds gathered outside the terminal, with one traveller describing the situation as the ‘entire place has ground to a halt.’ In an official statement, Brisbane Airport confirmed that a technical issue had been identified with one of its metal detectors, prompting authorities to re-screen everyone inside the terminal as a precautionary measure. The fault was quickly identified, and there is no safety or security threat.
Travellers described the experience as chaotic but calm. Craig MacLean, who was on a flight to Cairns, said passengers had already boarded when the evacuation order was announced. MacLean stated that, “There were thousands and thousands all funnelling outside. Now they’re all outside and waiting on the process of everyone having to come back through.” He added that the situation was confusing, with people being told to proceed for screening only to be turned away by security.
Another passenger, Zachariah Kelly, who was on a flight to Sydney, said delays stretched to around two and a half hours. Zachariah Kelly stated that, “There wasn’t much panic, but a lot of confusion. Nobody knew what was going on until Brisbane Airport released the statement.”
The airport has apologised for the inconvenience and thanked passengers for their patience and cooperation. Officials also confirmed that the international terminal remains unaffected by the disruption.
The incident comes just days after Brisbane Airport announced it had become the first in the world to complete a security assessment under the International Air Transport Association’s new program. The audit, which took place in June, involved a comprehensive review of the airport’s aviation security measures. Brisbane Airport is Australia’s third busiest and connects to 62 domestic destinations.
TRENDING | At least 68 migrants dead after boat sinks off Yemen coast
