HK airport fire leads to evacuation, strands passengers

A No. 2 alarm fire broke out at Hong Kong International Airport on Tuesday afternoon, prompting an evacuation at the Midfield Concourse, though no injuries were reported.

The fire started at about 3.03pm in a machine room near Gate 212 on the arrivals level of the Midfield Concourse. Airport staff reported seeing smoke and flames and alerted the police.

Firefighters arrived and extinguished the blaze by 4.01pm. An area measuring about 100 meters by 40 meters was evacuated, affecting around 30 people.

The Airport Authority Hong Kong said air bridges serving Gates 212, 214, and 216 were temporarily closed, although no aircraft were parked at the affected stands at the time.

Netizens said the automated people mover was suspended during the incident, leaving many passengers stranded near Gate 200. Some flights were also delayed as a result.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and the Airport Authority said it is following up with the Fire Services Department.