FOG BLOG CANADA LOG: FIRE PROMPTS EVACUATION AND SHUTDOWN OF ST. JOHN'S NL AIRPORT TERMINAL!

Fire shuts down St. John's International Airport terminal Passengers asked to check with airlines regarding cancelled flights A fire at St. John's International Airport has shut down the terminal building on Saturday.

The St. John's International Airport Authority anticipates the building will remain closed to the public and staff until 6 p.m. at the earliest.

Dennis Hogan, the CEO of the airport authority, says no flights have been affected by the fire so far, as many flights were already cancelled or delayed due to the winter storm conditions in eastern Newfoundland.

The airport authority says the fire began in a localized area on the second floor of the terminal building at around 11:30 p.m. Friday.

The St. John's regional fire department, as well as airport emergency responders, were able to contain the fire, which occurred in the ceiling near the kids' play area. Hogan said the extent of the damage is still being assessed. The cause of the fire is still unknown.

Hogan says only about 30 people were in the building at the time of the fire, and that everyone was able to evacuate the building safely.

Royal Newfoundland Constabulary officers as well as fire department officials remain on the scene to assess the damage and safety of the building.

The airport authority is now advising passengers not to visit the airport until it is determined the terminal can re-open safely. Travellers are also being asked to contact their airlines directly before heading to the airport, but the terminal remains closed for the time being.

Hogan said there likely won't be any flight activity at the airport, including both arrivals or departures, until at least 11 p.m. Saturday.