Massive Fire at Citubo Warehouse Causes Flight Delays at Ibiza Airport

A massive fire broke out at the Citubo warehouse near Ibiza Airport on June 4, 2024, causing significant disruptions to flights departing from the popular holiday destination. The blaze, which started at the back of the warehouse, rapidly spread and filled the skies with thick clouds of black smoke, visible from miles away.

The disruption of flights at Ibiza Airport stemming from the Citubo warehouse fire has significant implications for the travel industry and the economy. The delays and cancellations could lead to financial losses for airlines, airports, and tourism-related businesses, and also inconvenience thousands of travelers.

The fire resulted in delays for at least 13 flights between 3 pm and 5 pm, with an average departure delay of 14 minutes, according to Aena, the Spanish airport management company. Long queues of cars formed at the airport, exacerbating the disruptions.

Fortunately, no injuries or deaths were reported. Local media confirmed that the warehouse workers were safely evacuated in under two minutes. The Citubo warehouse, located in the Can Frígoles Industrial Estate, is used to manufacture household items, gardening products, furniture, toys, and supplies, which are typically made from flammable materials.

Miguel Sevilla, the head of the Ibiza Fire Department, stated that firefighters remain at the scene, joined by local police, as they continue their efforts to put out the blaze. The cause of the fire is currently unknown.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing huge columns of black smoke from miles across the island, with some spotting the plumes from Sant Antoni and even Formentera. Travelers shared alarming footage of thick smoke visible from their plane windows on social media. Some also reported a brief internet connection outage at the airport.

The fire started around 1 pm, and by the evening, firefighting efforts were still ongoing. Two fire engines, two nurses, one ladder truck, one non-commissioned officer, two corporals, and 13 firefighters attended the scene to combat the blaze.

Key Takeaways

• Massive fire breaks out at Citubo warehouse near Ibiza Airport on June 4, 2024.
• At least 13 flights delayed, with an average departure delay of 14 minutes.
• No injuries or deaths reported, with warehouse workers safely evacuated.
• Cause of fire unknown, with investigation ongoing.
• Firefighting efforts continue, with significant disruptions to flights and travel.