A terrifying incident unfolded at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport on Wednesday morning when a fire broke out in Terminal 8, home to several major airlines including American Airlines. The blaze, originating from an escalator, sent plumes of thick smoke billowing through the terminal, causing panic among passengers and forcing a full evacuation.
By Aditya M
The Fire and Its Aftermath
The fire erupted shortly after 7 a.m., prompting a swift response from the New York City Fire Department. Firefighters arrived on the scene to battle the flames and evacuate the terminal. While the fire was eventually contained, the damage it caused was substantial. Ten people sustained injuries, primarily from smoke inhalation, with four requiring hospitalization.
Approximately 990 passengers were evacuated from the terminal and transported to other areas of the airport. The incident resulted in a significant disruption to flight operations, with hundreds of delays and cancellations reported throughout the day.
Passengers Describe the Chaos
Eyewitnesses recounted the terrifying moments as the fire broke out. Elena Delgado, a passenger waiting for her flight to Texas, described the scene as chaotic, with people panicking and gasping as thick smoke filled the terminal. Passengers were left stranded, uncertain about the status of their flights and with limited information about the situation.
Investigation Underway
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. Fire officials and airport authorities are working to determine the exact circumstances that led to the escalator igniting. Once the investigation is complete, safety measures are likely to be implemented to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
Impact on Travel
The fire at JFK Airport has had a significant impact on air travel, not only for those departing from New York but also for passengers connecting through the airport. Airlines are working diligently to rebook affected passengers and minimize disruptions, but the process is expected to take several days.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers that lurk in even the most modern and secure airports. As air travel continues to grow, ensuring the safety and security of passengers and airport staff remains a top priority.
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