Brisbane Airport evacuated, flights delayed as smoke triggers alarm

The Brisbane Airport’s international terminal has been evacuated, causing delays to flights, after testing of an air-conditioning unit caused smoke.

Just after 8am, testing of an air-conditioning unit’s heating element created smoke, which activated the fire alarm.

The Brisbane Airport’s international terminal was evacuated on Tuesday, January 13, 2026.Credit: Jordy Stoward

All passengers on level four of the international terminal were evacuated, causing delays for some departing international flights, and traffic congestion around the precinct.

Among the flights delayed was a Qantas flight to Tokyo, which was scheduled to depart at 9.20am, and was now estimated for 12pm, while a flight to Wellington at 8.50am was expected to leave at 10am.

A Queensland Fire Department spokesman said five fire crews attended, and were cleared to leave at 8.35am.

One video from the terminal showed passengers walking towards the exit while an emergency alarm blares, while another passenger reported it became “super hot”, like the air conditioning had been turned off.

A Brisbane Airport spokesman said passengers had returned to the terminal, and processing was being prioritised based on flight schedules.

“Brisbane Airport apologises for delays as a result of this morning’s evacuation,” he said.

Incoming international flights continued, and there was no impact to the domestic terminal.

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