Brisbane Airport chaos as security breach empties entire terminal

An internal investigation has been launched after a group of about six passengers reportedly made it through security checks undetected, causing hours of chaos on Sunday, with delays still being experienced today.

Line for passengers to go through security at the Brisbane Domestic Airport. Picture: Kieran Pelly

An internal investigation has been launched after a group of about six passengers made it through initial security checks at Brisbane Airport undetected, causing hours of chaos.

It is reported the group then moved on to the second security check point where passengers are scanned with wands, but refused to take part and simply carried on through into the terminal, triggering the evacuation of the entire Virgin terminal, and causing a long and frustrating night for other passengers.

All those who were evacuated then had to be re-screened, resulting in long delays and flight disruptions.

Brisbane Airport said there was no threat to travellers, but 33 flights were delayed as a result, although none were cancelled.

“Thanks to a swift response by airport security, these impacts have been contained to the southern end of the terminal (Virgin Australia end),” Brisbane Airport said on Sunday evening.

Steven Beckett from BAC on Monday said the corporation sincerely apologised for the inconvenience.

“Yesterday’s priority was making sure there was no risk to passengers and staff and getting everyone back on their flights and restoring travel arrangements as soon as possible,” he said. On Monday morning, passengers were warned to expect “longer than usual” wait times for check-in and screening at the domestic terminal and were advised to arrive more than 90 minutes before their flight.

Australian Federal Police are aware of the incident that required passengers to be re-screened but won’t be involved in ongoing investigations, according to a spokeswoman.

Traveller Justine Martin arrived at Brisbane Airport at 4pm for a flight to Melbourne departing at 5.50pm.

Ms Martin was dropping her bags off when the terminal was evacuated and said the process afterwards was chaotic.

“You couldn’t go to the bathroom or even get water, you would lose your spot in he massive line,” she said.

“Security needs to lift their game, disgusting and disappointing, there was no consideration for the elderly or disabled.”

Line for passengers to go through security at the Brisbane Domestic Airport. Picture: Kieran Pelly

Line for passengers to go through security at the Brisbane Domestic Airport. Picture: Kieran Pelly