A large grass fire has erupted next to Melbourne Airport, raising concerns among local residents and authorities. The fire broke out on Loemans Road at Bulla, which is adjacent to the northwest corner of the airport near Tullamarine, at 2:53 PM on Tuesday, May 6, 2025.
According to the Victoria Country Fire Authority (CFA), smoke is visible from nearby communities and roads, prompting advisories for residents to stay informed and monitor conditions. The CFA reported that firefighters responded to the fire around 2:18 PM, and as of now, 23 units from multiple brigades are on the scene working to contain the blaze.
The fire has rapidly spread to approximately 60 hectares, moving in a south-easterly direction towards Deep Creek and the airport. Despite the size of the fire, Melbourne Airport operations have not been affected, with flights continuing to arrive and depart as normal. A spokesperson for the airport stated, "Thanks to the firefighters working to contain the grass fire to the west of the airport, operations are not currently affected. Flights continue to arrive and depart as normal." This reassurance comes as emergency services work diligently to manage the situation.
Andrew Lund, Head of Media and Communications at Melbourne Airport, elaborated further on the situation during an interview on 3AW Drive, saying, "Not affecting our operations at the moment." This statement provides some comfort to travelers and airport staff alike, emphasizing that while the fire is concerning, it has not disrupted airport activities.
As emergency services continue their efforts, residents living near the airport have been advised to keep roads clear to allow for swift access for firefighting resources. VicEmergency has also issued guidance, stating, "There is currently no threat to you, but you should stay informed and monitor conditions." This advice underscores the importance of community awareness and preparedness in the face of such incidents.
The CFA and local authorities are closely monitoring the fire's progression, which has been described as spreading quickly in the southeast direction. The fire's proximity to the airport has raised questions about safety protocols and emergency response strategies, particularly given the potential for smoke and flames to impact air traffic.
While the immediate threat to airport operations appears to be minimal, the situation remains fluid. Firefighters are working tirelessly to contain the blaze, and their efforts are crucial in preventing further spread and ensuring the safety of the surrounding areas.
As the day progresses, updates from the CFA and Melbourne Airport are expected, keeping the public informed about any changes in the fire's status and its potential impact on local communities and air travel. For now, the focus remains on controlling the fire and ensuring that all safety measures are in place.
In summary, the grass fire near Melbourne Airport has prompted a significant emergency response, with firefighters actively working to contain the blaze. While operations at the airport continue unaffected, the situation highlights the need for vigilance and preparedness among local residents. Authorities are urging everyone to stay informed as they navigate this challenging incident.
