Last Updated:August 20, 2025, 19:07 IST
Chaos erupted at Milan’s Malpensa Airport when a man with a hammer set fire to a check-in area.

Footage posted online showed thick black smoke pouring from the terminal. (Image Credit: X)
Chaos broke out at Milan’s Malpensa Airport when a man armed with a hammer stormed into the departure hall of Terminal 1 and set fire to part of a check-in area. The incident occurred when the attacker smashed screens between two check-in desks and ignited a rubbish bin, according to Italian media. He also reportedly tried to strike security staff before being restrained. The suspect, a Malian resident in Italy with no criminal record, has been arrested.
Evacuation And Panic At Milan Airport
A staff member first noticed smoke rising from the desks and intervened as the suspect damaged equipment. Passengers then stepped in to help subdue him, Varese News reported. Footage posted online showed thick black smoke pouring from the terminal as panicked travellers evacuated. Emergency services quickly responded to extinguish the flames.
🚨🇮🇹 Meanwhile at Malpensa Airport, Milan ItalyUsual suspect is apprehended after smashing parts of Airport Terminal up with a Hammer & then setting fire to it. pic.twitter.com/LQ8UDZN6i9
— Concerned Citizen (@BGatesIsaPyscho) August 20, 2025
“The presence of smoke required the evacuation of the terminal itself for safety reasons. The affected area was quickly reached and made safe," a provincial fire service spokesperson said as per local media.
Delays And Disruption After Incident
Terminal 1 was partially closed following the attack, forcing passengers to queue outside. The Lombardy Airports Association confirmed the suspect’s arrest and said while flight operations continued, some delays and cancellations were possible. Airport staff said that air quality inside the building was still “unbreathable" hours after the fire. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
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Location :Italy
First Published:August 20, 2025, 18:50 IST
News world Chaos At Milan Airport As Hammer-Wielding Man Smashes Check-In Screens, Starts Fire | Video
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