Major European airport evacuated after huge fire breaks out at check in desks

Milan's Malpensa Airport was reportedly evacuated after a huge fire broke out at check-in desks. Terrifying footage was shared on social media showing the blaze engulf numerous desks at the Italian airport as worried passengers moved away from the flames. A man was videoed entering the departure area of Terminal 1 armed with a hammer, before setting fire to a rubbish bin and smashing the screens between the two check-in desks.

Other images shared by eyewitnesses showed black smoke billowing from the bin as travellers scattered from the scene. A staff member intervened in the incident and was assisted by members of the public, according to local reports. Emergency services including firefighters and the police responded to the incident, with the fall-out of the blaze described as "chaotic" and the air "unbreathable".

The fire was extinguished by emergency teams who cordoned off the affected area and police reportedly took an individual into custody shortly afterwards.

The Airport Association for the Lombardi Region confirmed that a man had been arrested but police have not yet confirmed a motive for the incident.

In a statement on X, a spokesperson said: "The situation was quickly brought under control after the arrest of a man who set fire and destroyed some check-in counters.

"Due to the closure of some areas and evacuation of premises, [there will be] possible delays and cancellations for departures from the airport."

The incident began unfolding at around 11am local time, according to Italian news outlet Corriere della Sera, with emergency services responding to reports of an "agitated" man near Terminal 1.

No injuries have been reported, according to local media, and there was no "significant disruption to air traffic".

Malpensa Airport has been contacted for comment.