Incident Overview
- On Saturday, 20 September 2025, Dublin Airport’s Terminal 2 was evacuated around 11:30 AM local time after a security alert.
- Airport authorities described the evacuation as a precautionary measure following detection of a suspicious item in a bag that had passed through security scanners.
- Gardaí (Irish police) were called, joined by personnel from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit and officers from the Special Detective Unit.
Reopening & Operational Impact
- After inspection and safety checks, authorities gave Terminal 2 the all-clear; passengers were permitted to re-enter, and flights were expected to resume within approximately 30 minutes of the reopening notice.
- Though operations resumed, minor disruptions in flight schedules and delays were anticipated throughout the day. Passengers were advised to stay in contact with their airlines for updates.
Additional Factors: Europe-Wide Software Issue
- In parallel, a Europe-wide software problem affecting airline check-in and boarding systems also impacted Dublin (and Cork) airports. This issue caused further disruptions off the back of the evacuation.
- Some airlines had to revert to manual check-in procedures. Delays were reported across various airports in Europe.
What Is Known / Unknown
Known:
- The trigger was a suspicious item detected during security screening; terminal evacuated as a precaution.
- Security forces, including explosive ordnance specialists, responded.
- Terminal 1 was not affected and remained operational.
Unknown / Unconfirmed:
- Whether the suspicious item was dangerous, and if any charges will follow.
- The precise nature of the threat (e.g., bomb scare, suspicious device, etc.).
- Full extent of disruption over the rest of the day. While delays are expected, how many flights were cancelled or significantly delayed remains to be detailed.
Reactions and Safety Measures
- Airport operator DAA emphasised that passenger and staff safety remains its highest priority.
- Gardaí are investigating and have identified the owner of the suspect bag. Inquiries are ongoing.
- Traffic around Dublin Airport was reported heavy during and after the evacuation. Access routes were congested.
Broader Context & Implications
- The incident underlines ongoing security challenges at major international airports, particularly in balancing vigilance with maintaining smooth operations.
- The coinciding software disruptions in multiple European airports highlight vulnerabilities in aviation infrastructure, especially dependence on digital systems for check-in, boarding, and baggage handling.
- Such incidents can lead to:
- Delays for travellers, missed connections, and stress for those in transit.
- Additional costs for airlines and airport operators in managing evacuations, rescheduling, and contingency planning.
- Reputational effects, particularly among passengers sensitive to safety or delays.
What to Monitor Going Forward
- Whether further details emerge about the suspicious item and whether there was criminal activity.
- How many flights and passengers were affected in total (delays, cancellations).
- If there will be follow-up on the software issue: its cause, remedies, and how such vulnerabilities are being addressed.
- Changes to airport security and process protocols (especially screening, EOD response) that might be implemented to avoid similar incidents.
Conclusion
Terminal 2 at Dublin Airport was briefly evacuated earlier today as a precaution after a suspicious item triggered a security alert. While the terminal has now reopened and flights are resuming, minor disruptions remain possible. The coordinated response by security forces, combined with prioritisation of safety, likely helped avoid worse outcomes. Still, the incident exposes vulnerabilities — both in physical security and in airport operating systems — that airports across Europe may need to address more robustly.