Suspended ceiling tile collapse at airport

16 December 2004

Suspended ceiling tile collapse at airport

Auckland International Airport Limited (AIAL) chief executive officer, Don Huse, confirmed that a section of suspended ceiling tiles above new check-in counters in the International Terminal at Auckland Airport collapsed today. A full investigation is underway to determine the cause. Fifteen people were injured.

The area has been evacuated and secured pending the investigation.

Five of the injured airport staff have been taken to hospital for assessment. Ten were taken to a local medical centre and most of these have now gone home. It is understood two or three passengers were also affected but felt well enough to proceed with their travel arrangements.

Auckland Airport medical resources responded immediately to the collapse, which happened around 1.20pm.

"All appropriate investigations are being undertaken and we are not assuming anything relative to its cause," Mr Huse said.

All flights processed in the area concerned were shifted to other check-in counters in the terminal. No flights have been delayed as a result.

ends

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