Travelers at LaGuardia Airport’s Terminal B experienced a significant disruption on Saturday morning due to the discovery of a suspicious package. The incident unfolded around 6:29 a.m. when security personnel reported an unknown parcel located in a non-public area of the terminal, prompting immediate action from the Port Authority Police.
In response to the potential threat, all passengers who had not yet undergone security screening were evacuated from the terminal. They were instructed to wait outside, creating a scene of uncertainty and concern among those affected. Eyewitness accounts describe a chaotic but orderly evacuation process, with TSA agents swiftly taking control of the situation.
One passenger, Robert Baston, who was preparing for an 8:10 a.m. Southwest flight to Denver, recounted his experience during the evacuation. “I was very close to the front. I started seeing TSA agents telling everyone to stop screening. One agent was speaking on the radio,” Baston said. He expressed his frustration, noting that information from TSA agents was sparse, leaving many passengers anxious about their travel plans.
The situation escalated as numerous travelers found themselves stranded outside the terminal. Many waited in the parking lot, uncertain about the status of their flights. The official social media channels of LaGuardia Airport confirmed that police activity at Terminal B would likely lead to significant disruptions in flight schedules.
As the evacuation continued, passengers expressed their concerns, particularly regarding potential delays caused by weather conditions in their destination cities. Baston, for instance, mentioned his worries about a storm in Denver, indicating that he had anticipated some delays but not to the extent caused by the evacuation.
In the midst of the chaos, the NYPD bomb squad was dispatched to the scene to assess the situation. Their presence added a layer of seriousness to the unfolding events. Fortunately, the bomb squad provided the airport with an all-clear signal just before 8 a.m., alleviating some of the tension that had built up during the evacuation.
Despite the swift resolution, the incident affected many travelers, leading to delays and missed flights. The airport’s management worked to keep passengers informed as they navigated the aftermath of the evacuation.
As air travel often involves unexpected challenges, this incident at LaGuardia Airport serves as a reminder of the importance of security measures in ensuring the safety of passengers and staff alike. The quick response from airport security and law enforcement highlights the protocols in place to handle such situations effectively.
Travelers are advised to remain vigilant and prepared for potential disruptions, especially during busy travel periods. The LaGuardia incident underscores the need for ongoing communication and coordination among airport authorities, law enforcement, and passengers to ensure a safe and efficient travel experience.
As the situation continues to develop, affected passengers and those planning to travel through LaGuardia Airport are encouraged to stay updated on flight statuses and potential delays. The airport’s official channels will provide the latest information as operations return to normal.
