Chaos erupted at Pearson Airport last night after a fire near a security checkpoint led authorities to evacuate the area. The fire broke out in a store in the secure area around 6:30pm, according to Peel Police. It was quickly extinguished but not before all U.S. bound flights from Terminal 1 were cancelled for the night, and dozens of inbound flights were stranded on the tarmac for hours. Photos posted on social media showed thick smoke in parts of the airport, and television footage showed frustrated passengers crowding the terminal’s main concourse. There cause of the fire is still under investigation. Flights are taking off and departing as usual this morning but there could be delays so check your flight before heading to the airport.
Photo Credit: Peel Police via Twitter
Both Terminals 1 and 3 are operating normally, with the exception of Terminal 1 departures to the United States, where some delays may be experienced. Please check your flight status with your airline before leaving for the airport. https://t.co/VPZ071V8vB
— Toronto Pearson (@TorontoPearson) March 18, 2019
— Joseph Santos (@josephsantos) March 18, 2019
Update: Fire has been extinguished however a significant amount of water and smoke exist. We are encouraging all passengers to check their flight status before attending the terminal. I will provide a media staging point shortly.
— Peel Regional Police (@PeelPoliceMedia) March 17, 2019
All flights to the U.S. scheduled to depart from Terminal 1 have been cancelled. For passengers scheduled to travel to the U.S. out of Terminal 1 tonight or tomorrow, please contact your airline before leaving for the airport. https://t.co/fIGJaUSdS0
— Toronto Pearson (@TorontoPearson) March 18, 2019
