This afternoon, both passengers and staff were temporarily barred from the check-in area of Terminal 1 at Perth Airport due to a security incident involving federal and state police.
Reports indicate that a man allegedly entered the terminal making threats, abandoned a bag, and then left the premises.
Authorities have apprehended a suspect in the city who is currently being questioned by police regarding the incident.
The terminal was met with applause when it reopened shortly before 6:30 p.m. local time (8:30 p.m. AEST).
According to a spokesperson for Perth Airport, an exclusion zone was set up on the Terminal 1 forecourt as a safety measure. This led to the temporary closure of the terminal’s check-in areas and short-term parking facilities.
“The investigation has now concluded, and the affected areas are beginning to reopen,” the spokesperson confirmed.
“Perth Airport is working closely with airline partners and relevant agencies to return operations to normal as quickly as possible.
“Some delays are expected. Passengers are advised to check directly with their airline for the latest flight information.”
The Australian Federal Police said it was responding to the incident along with state police and the airport itself.
Members of the public were asked to avoid the area.
One passenger said the airport was obviously trying to keep people safe in the face of something serious but criticised its communication.
Another was concerned about what it would mean for her travel plans.
“[We’re] just wondering how long we’re going to have to wait and if we’re going to actually make our flights home tonight,” she told 9News.
“And what’s going to happen for the connecting flights. And it just sort of snowballs on from that really.”
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