Viral Videos Fuel Misinformation About Lahore Airport Fire
The incident highlights the importance of verifying information through official channels to avoid spreading misinformation, and the authorities' efforts to ensure the smooth operation of the airport and the safety of passengers.
Pakistan Airports Authority has denied reports of a fire and flight cancellations at Lahore's Allama Iqbal International Airport, calling them "baseless, false, and misleading", despite a recent incident where a Pakistan Army plane's tire caught fire during landing, prompting the temporary cancellation of all flights.
The Authority stated that airport operations are running smoothly without any disruptions, and all flights are operating as per schedule. However, a fire did break out at the airport on Saturday, causing panic and the temporary evacuation of passengers from the international terminal. Firefighters responded swiftly and brought the fire under control, but due to heavy smoke, flight operations were affected, with Hajj and international flights delayed or diverted.
The incident occurred when a military aircraft experienced a tire fire upon landing, and the runway was temporarily closed. The army took control of the airport, tightening security and closing entry points. No casualties were reported, and investigative agencies are investigating the cause of the accident. This is not the first time a fire has occurred at the airport, with a previous incident in May 2024 caused by a short circuit in the immigration counter's ceiling.
The Pakistan Airports Authority has condemned the spread of misinformation and urged the public and media to rely on verified sources, warning of possible legal action against those found guilty of intentionally spreading false information. The authority's statement comes as a reminder to be cautious when sharing information, especially in the age of viral videos and social media.