A PASSENGER sparked chaos by starting a fire at the check-in desk of a major European airport.

The check-in area has been closed until the situation is brought under control at Milan’s Malpensa Airport.

Chaotic scenes at the airport terminal were caught on camera and shared widely on social media.

Flames can be seen engulfing the check-in area while black smoke billows into the air.

The terrifying ordeal saw bystanders flee in confusion as the incident unfolded.

It started at around 10.30am today in the departure area of Terminal 1.

The man went on a rampage in the check-in area, first attempting to set fire to a bin, according to Italian media.

Armed with a hammer, he then damaged check-in desks and information screens.

The passenger then tried to hit multiple SEA security personnel before he was finally restrained by officers.

He has since been arrested, according to reports.

Crowds of terrified passengers were seen fleeing the terminal while the bizarre rampage was underway.

Part of the airport was closed as firefighters dashed in to extinguish the blaze.

A SEA employee who intervened to stop him reportedly suffered some injuries and was treated by medical services, Varese News has reported.

Pictures of the aftermath show the terminal consumed with heavy smoke as first responders continue to clear up the scene.

A spokesperson for the Lombardy Airport Association said the situation was “quickly brought under control” following the man’s arrest.

They added: “Due to the closure of some areas and evacuation of premises, possible delays and cancellations for departures from the airport.”