The management of Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) has confirmed an incident at Kotoka International Airport (KIA), Terminal 3 Departure Hall, where a passenger’s luggage emitted smoke, leading to an evacuation.
The incident occurred at approximately 3:27 PM on Sunday, September 22, 2024, at the baggage wrap area.
According to the GACL, the Aviation Security Department was immediately alerted upon detection of the smoke, and the luggage in question was swiftly isolated.
Passengers present at the terminal were promptly evacuated in line with GACL’s emergency procedures, ensuring that no one was harmed during the incident.
The passenger involved has been handed over to the National Investigations Bureau (NIB) for further interrogation. GACL advises passengers to avoid traveling with batteries, as this contravenes International Civil Aviation Regulations. Any prohibited items found in luggage will be confiscated, and the passenger involved will be processed by the authorities.
The GACL expressed gratitude to passengers for their cooperation during the evacuation, emphasizing that the safety of all travelers is the airport’s top priority. Following the successful resolution of the incident, all passenger services and terminal operations resumed smoothly.
This incident serves as a reminder to travelers about the dangers of carrying prohibited items in their luggage, including batteries, which can pose safety risks during air travel.