Miyazaki Airport in Japan is closed after a World War II bomb; 87 flights canceled
Dangers and incidents
03.10.2024 Japan Miyazaki Prefecture   17
Miyazaki Airport, a regional airport in Japan, has been closed after a World War II-era American bomb exploded near its runway, according to recent reports. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, led to the cancellation of 87 flights. The bomb, likely dropped during attempts to stop kamikaze attacks, caused significant damage to the airport, creating a crater 23 feet wide and 3 feet deep right in the center of the taxiway. Details of the incident were provided by an official from Japan's Ministry of Transport.


The Bomb Disposal Division of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force confirmed the news of the explosion. They said the explosion was caused by an American bomb buried underground, likely brought there by an air raid during the war. However, the good thing is that no one was hurt.


But due to the explosion, the airport was forced to close the runway and canceled 87 flights. These flights, operated by Japan Airlines (JAL), All Nippon Airways (ANA) and other carriers, connect Miyazaki to cities such as Tokyo, Osaka and Fukuoka.


According to Yoshimasa Hayashi, chief spokesman government of Japan, repair work to fill the crater will be completed by Thursday morning, which ensures that there are no further risks of explosions.


More about Miyazaki Airport


Miyazaki Airport is located in the south -eastern tip of the island of Kyushu. It was originally a Japanese naval base during World War II and was notably used to launch kamikaze missions, where young pilots were sent on suicide missions for the Empire of Japan. The airport's historical connection to the war has led to the discovery of many unexploded bombs in the area over the years.


World War II ended more than 79 years ago, but remnants of intense airstrikes across Japan resurface from time to time . The Self-Defense Forces reported that in fiscal year 2023 alone it disposed of 2,348 bombs weighing a total of 41 tons. Although the war is long over, these relics serve as a reminder of the enduring impact of the conflict on the country.


However, there is no immediate threat, and things will soon return to normal.

Source: timesofindia

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