By Dayo Ade Olusola | August 20, 2025
Chaos erupted at Milan’s Malpensa Airport on Wednesday morning after a man stormed into Terminal 1 armed with a hammer and allegedly set a fire before smashing equipment at check-in desks.
The incident unfolded at around 10:30 a.m., with footage shared online showing black smoke rising from the departure area as panicked passengers screamed and rushed to safety.
Witnesses said the suspect first ignited a rubbish bin before using a hammer to smash screens between two check-in counters. Several security staff attempted to intervene, while travellers scrambled to flee the scene.
According to Italian newspaper La Stampa, the man appeared to target only airport property and did not strike passengers or staff.
Nevertheless, the disturbance created scenes of panic as thick smoke filled parts of the terminal. Varese News reported that a staff member first attempted to confront the man, before passengers joined in to restrain him.
The Airport Association for the Lombardy region confirmed that the man was arrested shortly afterwards. Police have not yet disclosed his identity or any potential motive.
In a statement on X, the association said: “The situation was quickly brought under control after the arrest of the man who set fire and destroyed some check-in counters. Due to the closure of some areas and evacuation of premises, possible delays and cancellations for departures from the airport are expected.”
Firefighters rushed into the terminal to extinguish the blaze while airport staff worked to clear lingering smoke.
Images shared on social media showed passengers covering their faces as they moved through smoke-filled areas. Officials later described the air inside parts of the terminal as “unbreathable.”
Authorities confirmed that sections of the departure hall remain closed while emergency crews continue safety checks.
Travellers have been advised to monitor flight information and allow extra time for departures due to potential disruptions.
Local police said investigations into the incident are ongoing, with forensic teams examining damaged check-in equipment.
No injuries were immediately reported.
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