‘Strong gas smell’ causes disruption at Vancouver airport

Vancouver International Airport's domestic terminal was evacuated Wednesday afternoon after a suspected gas leak.

Operations resumed at Vancouver International Airport’s domestic terminal Wednesday after a disruption caused by a “strong gas smell,” according to a spokesperson for YVR.

The odour was reported around 1 p.m., prompting a response that include airport staff, firefighters and police.

“Passengers and employees were quickly moved from impacted areas out of an abundance of caution. The source of the odour was swiftly identified and contained,” an emailed statement from the airport said.

“There could be some minor flight delays as the influx of passengers is processed. We would like to thank those involved for their quick action and those impacted for their patience.”

The airport’s statement did not provide details about where the odour originated or how it was contained.

An advisory to would-be travellers on social media around 2 p.m. urged them check with their airlines before heading to YVR.

Responses to the social media post included people saying they were being prevented from entering the building, were unable to collect luggage, or were stuck on the tarmac.

The airport’s website showed some delays for domestic arrivals and departures, but it is unclear if the incident at the terminal was the cause.