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Chaos at Lagos Airport on Monday as a massive fire broke out at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Terminal 1, disrupting operations for hours. The blaze, which reportedly started around 2 p.m., affected critical operational areas, including the control tower, forcing widespread flight cancellations and leaving thousands of passengers stranded.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) immediately deployed emergency response teams, working alongside firefighters and airport staff to contain the blaze. Authorities confirmed that while no lives were lost, the incident caused severe operational disruptions across domestic and international flights.
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Chaos at Lagos Airport as Fire Outbreak and Airport Disrupted
The fire reportedly affected the old terminal facilities, including the control tower, leading to the temporary suspension of airport operations. Passengers faced confusion as airlines struggled to provide timely updates. Many travelers reported arriving at the airport without prior notification of cancellations or diversions.
One passenger scheduled on KLM expressed frustration: “I was told there’s a fire incident, so I’m in limbo… I don’t know what’s going to happen. It’s the responsibility of the airline to lodge me in a hotel if I can’t travel.”
International flights, including Air France, Turkish Airlines, and Lufthansa, were reportedly diverted to neighboring countries such as Ghana while authorities restored control. Air Peace passengers also experienced repeated delays and uncertainty.
Emergency Response and Rescue Efforts
FAAN’s Managing Director, Olubunmi Kuku, confirmed that emergency operations remained active throughout the incident. A crane was deployed to the control tower to rescue fourteen individuals trapped inside the terminal. All were safely evacuated, and six casualties, three men and three women, were reported in stable condition.
Investigators traced the fire to a technical facility within Terminal 1. “Preliminary findings indicate the fire originated from the server room on the first floor of Terminal 1,” FAAN stated, adding that monitoring continues to prevent further spread.
Passenger Frustration and Economic Impact
Passengers voiced anger at the lack of communication and questioned the airport’s readiness. Many highlighted that a backup control facility should have mitigated the disruption. Airport businesses, ground transport operators, and airline staff also faced operational paralysis as travelers crowded terminals seeking information.
Aviation experts warn that shutdowns at Nigeria’s busiest international gateway could have cascading effects across West African air traffic. Diversions and delays affect aircraft schedules, crew rotations, and connecting flights across the region. For guidance on airport safety protocols, visit International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Flights Grounded as Airspace Closed
FAAN confirmed that airspace was temporarily closed for safety, while the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) established temporary control operations. “In line with established safety protocols, the airspace remains temporarily closed,” FAAN said, emphasizing the agency’s commitment to restoring airport operations safely.
Passengers awaiting departures were advised to monitor airline communications and FAAN updates. The authority is working to restore operations while preventing further disruptions.
Moving Forward: Aviation Safety and Preparedness
The fire raises fresh concerns about aviation safety preparedness at Nigerian airports. Former Aviation Minister Hadi Sirika invested heavily in firefighting equipment across Nigerian airports, but Monday’s incident underscores the need for continuous emergency readiness and communication strategies to safeguard passengers.
For more information on FAAN operations and safety protocols, visit FAAN Official Website.
