Perth Airport’s Terminal 1 has reopened following a security scare that left hundreds of passengers stranded outside the international terminal for close to two hours on Wednesday afternoon.
The Australian Federal Police and WA Police were called to investigate a reported unattended bag, prompting authorities to establish an exclusion zone and temporarily close the terminal’s drop-off and pick-up area. The AFP urged the public to “avoid the area and await further advice” as the investigation got underway.
Passengers were permitted to re-enter the building by 6:30pm after police concluded their investigation.
“The AFP and WA Police investigation at Terminal 1 International has now concluded, and the impacted areas are beginning to reopen,” Perth Airport said in a statement.
Despite the all-clear, the airport warned that disruptions would continue, urging travellers to check directly with their airline for the latest flight information.
“Delays are expected, and we are working closely with our airline partners and relevant agencies to return operations to normal as quickly as possible,” the statement read.
While the terminal was closed, crowds gathered outside the entrance as several flights were impacted. Among those caught up in the chaos was interstate traveller Austin, who arrived to find large groups of people milling outside.
“I just heard [my flight’s] delayed and the terminal’s closed, hoping to get an answer soon,” he said.
Perth Airport is located approximately 12 kilometres east of the city’s CBD.
