Images show firefighters working in the check-in area
12:38, 20 Aug 2025Updated 12:47, 20 Aug 2025
Google view of Milano Malpensa Airport (Image: Google Maps )
A terminal at a major European airport was evacuated after a check-in desk went up in flames. In a video shared widely on social media, passengers and airport staff at Malpensa Airport in Milan, Italy can be seen running from flames coming from the desk on Wednesday, August 20.
Images shared on X also show firefighters working in the check-in area of the airport. It is believed the incident happened in Terminal One. Unconfirmed reports suggest a man set fire to the check-in desk, however this has not been confirmed by authorities.
Local media has reported that airport operations have been unaffected by the incident. Sophia Kim spoke to our sister publication the Mirror about what she saw. Sophia was checking in around counter 13 for her Cathay Pacific Airlines flight when the staff member who was serving her reacted in horror.
She said: “I was checking in at counter 13 or 14 (Cathay Pacific Airlines check-in counter) and then all of a sudden the staff member who was assisting me – her eyes turned big and she covered her mouth in shock.
“It was then I turned around only to see the check in counter on the other side was on fire.
“I heard popping noises and a man wearing a white t-shirt with a blue surgical mask on with a hat was yelling out loud.
“Everyone around me was in panic mode – screaming and running.
“I am still very shaken up and scared. Please be careful.”
The provincial fire service has released a statement after the incident at Malpensa Airport this morning. A spokesperson said: “The presence of smoke required the evacuation of the terminal itself for safety reasons. The affected area was quickly reached and made safe.
“Operations at the airport continued without significant disruption to air traffic.”
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