Tokyo: Chaos erupted at Japan’s New Chitose Airport when a pair of scissors went missing, leading to the cancellation of 36 flights and delays for over 200 others on Saturday, BBC reported. The airport, known for its strict security protocols, faced major disruptions after a retail outlet reported the missing scissors. A search was conducted, during which security checks for incoming passengers were suspended for two hours.
This suspension caused long queues and many passengers were turned away. The situation was worsened by the fact that many travelers were returning home after the Obon holiday, a traditional Japanese festival honoring ancestors.
Frustrated travelers voiced their concerns. One said, “I don’t think we have any choice [but to wait], but I do hope they are a bit more careful about it.” Another added, “So many things to worry about these days… it never ends. And I don’t feel safe until I get home.”
The scissors were eventually found in the same shop where they had gone missing, easing fears of theft or malicious intent. The delay in announcing the discovery was due to the airport needing to confirm that they were the same pair, according to Japanese broadcaster NHK.
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism has asked the airport to investigate the incident to prevent it from happening again. A representative from the airport said, “We recognize that this occurred as a result of insufficient storage and management systems at the store. We are aware that this is also an incident that could be linked to hijacking or terrorism, and will once again work to ensure thorough management awareness.”
New Chitose Airport, opened in 1988, is the largest airport in Hokkaido and one of Japan’s busiest. In 2022, it handled over 15 million passengers, making it a key transportation hub in northern Japan.
Missing Scissors Cause Chaos at Japan’s Second-Busiest Airport, 36 Flight Cancelled world-news World News | Latest International News | Global World News | World News Today
