Six international flights, including the initial two Hajj flights, faced delays following a fire that erupted in the lounge area of Lahore airport early Thursday morning.
Prompt action ensured the fire was swiftly brought under control, and fortunately, no casualties were reported.
The fire originated in the ceiling of the immigration counter, filling the lounge with smoke and prompting the evacuation of passengers from the airport premises.
Footage aired depicted the lounge engulfed in smoke.
A dedicated team has been assembled to investigate the cause of the fire. Airport authorities noted significant damage to the immigration counter due to the incident.
Consequently, the departure of the first Hajj flight and a total of six flights experienced delays. Notably, Qatar Airways flight QR 629 was among those affected.
Despite concerns about potential disruptions to the immigration process at the arrival desk, incoming international flights were not redirected to alternative airports.
No official declaration of emergency was made by the airport authority.
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) released a statement affirming that international flights were being managed from the domestic departure lounge at the airport.
The statement indicates that the issue stemming from the short circuit was resolved by approximately 5:00 a.m. today.
The CAA confirms that both Hajj and other international flights are presently being managed via the domestic section, with the anticipation that domestic flight services will resume shortly.
The spokesperson emphasized that the primary priority is ensuring the seamless immigration process for flights arriving at Lahore Airport.
