Fire erupts at Lahore airport causing disruptions to Hajj flights and immigration services | Global News

A fire broke out at Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore, Pakistan on Thursday, causing chaos and delays for both Hajj and international flights. The incident was reportedly caused by a short circuit in the ceiling of the immigration counter, leading to partial damage to the immigration system.

Thankfully, rescue teams were quick to respond and were able to contain the situation without any reported loss of life. The airport authorities confirmed that the short circuit occurred around 5 am, disrupting operations at the airport.

Passengers were evacuated from the immigration lounge due to heavy smoke, with operations temporarily relocated to the domestic lounge. Despite the disruption, inbound international flights continued to be directed to Lahore airport without any diversions.

The fire also caused delays to several Hajj and international flights, impacting the travel plans of many passengers. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) reassured the public that international flight operations were continuing from the domestic departure lounge, with both Hajj and international flights being accommodated through domestic facilities.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs had previously announced plans to operate 11 special flights, transporting 2,160 Hajj pilgrims to Saudi Arabia on the initial day of the scheduled operation. The month-long Hajj 2024 flight operation was set to begin on May 9 and continue until June 9, with passengers from various cities in Pakistan participating in the pilgrimage.