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This afternoon, both passengers and staff found themselves unable to access the check-in area of Terminal One as federal and state police dealt with a security incident.
Reportedly, a man entered the terminal, issued threats, and then dropped a bag before making his exit.
Authorities have since apprehended a suspect in the city, who is currently in police custody for questioning.
The atmosphere turned jubilant when the terminal resumed operations shortly before 6:30 p.m. local time (8:30 p.m. AEST).
A representative for Perth Airport explained that an exclusion zone was set up on the Terminal 1 forecourt as a safety measure, resulting in the temporary closure of the terminal’s check-in areas and short-term parking facilities.
“The investigation has now concluded, and the impacted areas are beginning to reopen,” the spokesperson said.
“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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