A man has been arrested after he set fire to a check-in area at Terminal 1 of Milan's Malpensa Airport, causing a partial evacuation. The alarming event, which took place around 11:00 local time, triggered chaotic scenes as passengers scrambled to safety while smoke filled the terminal. Video clips circulating on social media depict a man igniting a blaze at a check-in desk and maliciously attacking digital screens before being pinned down by bystanders.
Emergency services responded swiftly to the disturbance, initially alerted to reports of an "agitated man" in the terminal. According to the Lombardy Airports Association, the situation has been contained, although potential delays and flight cancellations may occur at the busy airport that is a popular choice for tourists, particularly British travelers.
Fortunately, there have been no reported injuries connected with the incident. Photos from the scene reveal large crowds of passengers queuing outside as airport firefighters worked to extinguish the fire. The heavy smoke prompted officials to clear the area for safety concerns, although the association noted that air traffic has not been significantly disrupted. The BBC has reached out to Malpensa Airport for further comments regarding the incident.
