On Friday, June 12, Hamburg Airport (HAM) was partially evacuated following a security incident where an unauthorised individual entered the airport’s security area. This plunged the airport into chaos, with travellers left stranded due to flight delays of up to several hours as police responded to the scene.
Why was the airport evacuated?
The security alert was triggered on Friday morning after an unnamed man entered the airport’s security area by pressing an emergency button used to open the emergency exits. Speculation has arisen among media reports as to whether this was an intentional act or simply a result of the man getting lost within the airport.
This incident led to concerns around the airport’s security, prompting an evacuation and search of the area. All passengers who had passed security were evacuated, with those already seated on aircraft being told to disembark. Photographs taken by travellers at the airport show lengthy queues as passengers were left stranded by flight disruptions caused by the evacuation.
After two hours, the evacuation was lifted and the airport gradually resumed its normal operations, the evacuated passengers had to undergo security screening again as a precaution before they were able to board their flights.
What happened next?
All flights leaving from Hamburg were suspended following the security breach, with passengers being informed via loudspeaker that departures would not be possible. However, incoming flights were not affected, according to German news outlet Bild.
The individual involved was apprehended and taken into custody at the Federal Police station at the airport. It has not yet been confirmed whether the man involved did indeed pose any danger, or whether any charges are being filed relating to this incident.
Have you ever flown from Hamburg Airport? What do you think about this incident? Let us know in the comments below!
