Chaos at Miyazaki Airport! WWII-era US Bomb Explosion Shuts Down Runway

On October 2, 2024, a major explosion occurred at Miyazaki Airport in Miyazaki Prefecture, Kyushu, Japan, bringing the airport to a standstill. The cause of the explosion was surprisingly a WWII-era unexploded bomb dropped by the US military. The blast caused the airport’s taxiway to collapse, halting all aircraft operations and leaving many passengers in frustration. This incident once again highlights the ongoing issue of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in the region.

 

Cause and Progress of the Bomb Explosion
At around 8 a.m. on October 2, 2024, a sudden explosion rocked Miyazaki Airport, throwing the area into confusion. Witnesses reported smoke rising from the scene, and the airport's runway was immediately shut down, suspending all flights. According to Kyodo News and NHK, the explosion was caused by a 250kg WWII-era bomb that had failed to detonate when initially dropped by the US military. Just minutes before the explosion, a civilian aircraft bound for Haneda Airport had passed nearby, adding to the severity of the situation. The blast created an oval-shaped crater approximately 7 meters wide, 4 meters long, and 1 meter deep. While no casualties were reported, the airport’s operations came to a halt, causing significant disruption for passengers.

 

The Danger of Unexploded Ordnance (UXO)
The problem of unexploded bombs remains a significant issue throughout Japan, particularly in areas like Miyazaki Airport. Experts estimate that 10-30% of bombs dropped during WWII failed to explode and remain buried as UXOs. In Miyazaki, dozens of unexploded bombs may still be buried, presenting a constant threat. These bombs can explode unexpectedly, as seen in this incident, causing damage and disrupting essential services.

 

Miyazaki Airport has faced similar incidents in the past. In 2011, a 250kg unexploded bomb was discovered near the runway, and just three years ago, a 1-ton US bomb was found during construction work at the airport’s apron. Such events serve as a stark reminder that the danger of UXOs is still present, posing risks to both public safety and the local economy, as flight cancellations and disruptions have severe financial implications.

 

Government Response
Following the explosion, Japan's Self-Defense Forces, police, and fire authorities quickly responded to the scene, launching an investigation into the incident and assessing any further risks. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi reassured the public that there is "no concern of a second explosion" and that ongoing inspections by police and fire authorities are being conducted. He also emphasized the need for more thorough surveys of the area to locate and remove any remaining unexploded bombs.

 

This incident at Miyazaki Airport serves as a stark reminder of the lingering dangers of WWII-era unexploded bombs. The threat posed by these UXOs is not only a historical relic but also a present-day hazard that demands immediate attention. The Miyazaki Airport explosion highlights the need for the government and local authorities to intensify efforts to locate and safely dispose of unexploded ordnance to prevent further accidents and ensure public safety.

3 line summary for you

1. A World War II-era unexploded bomb detonated at Miyazaki Airport, causing a runway closure.
2. The explosion created a large crater, disrupting over 60 flights and causing widespread chaos.
3. Previous incidents of unexploded bombs at the airport highlight the need for further investigation and removal.

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