Fire at South Africa's Cape Town Airport disrupts flights

By Hassan Isilow

A fire broke out Tuesday at Cape Town International Airport and was later extinguished, but not before affecting operations at one of the country’s busiest airports and a tourism hub.

The Airports Company of South Africa (ACSA) confirmed in a statement that the fire broke out Tuesday afternoon and as a precautionary measure, international flights have been temporarily suspended while incoming flights are being diverted.

“Cape Town International Airport confirms that a fire occurred on the landside of the airport. The fire has been successfully extinguished, and all passengers, staff and visitors are safe,” the ACSA said.

The fire affected network and IT services, including airport wi-fi and other essential systems, according to the ACSA.

According to local media reports, the fire is believed to have started in an office building and a VIP lounge, and some passengers were evacuated for safety. In its statement, the ACSA did not mention the cause of the fire but said it would be providing further information as it becomes available.

“We understand that this incident may have caused concern, and we urge all passengers and visitors to follow security instructions and proceed to designated places of safety as directed by airport personnel,” it said.

Cape Town is a global tourism hub that attracts thousands of visitors daily.