News On Japan

Unexploded Bomb Detonates at Miyazaki Airport

Miyazaki, Oct 02 (News On Japan) - A large sinkhole was found on the taxiway of Miyazaki Airport on Wednesday, caused by the explosion of a 500-pound U.S.-made bomb.

Footage from a helicopter earlier shows a large hole on the airport's taxiway, the site of the explosion. Vehicles continue to gather around the area, indicating ongoing work. As of 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Miyazaki Airport remains closed.

The explosion occurred on the taxiway at around 8:00 a.m., shortly after a flight took off from the airport at 7:58 a.m. Black smoke rose high, and fragments were scattered over several meters. The fire department received a report of the explosion at 8:00 a.m., stating that debris was scattered across the surrounding taxiway and runway.

The hole created by the sudden explosion is approximately 7 meters in diameter and 1 meter deep, causing confusion at the airport. Miyazaki's only gateway to the sky has been closed indefinitely, with flights being canceled.

Passengers have expressed frustration over the situation. "I was planning to go to Kojima, but there seems to be no sign of reopening. It's troublesome," one passenger said.

Why did this bomb suddenly explode? According to the Japan Self-Defense Forces, the bomb has been identified as a 500-pound U.S.-made bomb. Residents in the vicinity recall that the area was once a Japanese Navy airfield during World War II.

Miyazaki Airport originated in 1943 as an airbase for the former Japanese Navy and was repurposed as an airport in 1954. In the past, there have been cases where unexploded bombs were found, leading to evacuation advisories.

Experts are exploring why the bomb was not detected during previous construction work at the airport. One specialist said that unexploded bombs usually detonate due to one of three reasons: shock, heat, or electricity (e.g., lightning). In this case, it is suspected that heat might have been the cause.

Fortunately, no injuries have been reported from the explosion.

Source: ANN

News On Japan
POPULAR NEWS

A man who was placed on the public wanted list Thursday is suspected of playing a key role in a series of robberies in Tokyo and Saitama.

The prestigious American magazine 'TIME' has selected actress Anna Sawai as one of this year’s '100 Next.'

Osaka City has handed over land for the Integrated Resort (IR) project, which will include a casino, after signing a contract to lease the land to the developer for 35 years at a monthly rent of 2.1 billion yen.

Japan's Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications is set to introduce new mobile phone numbers starting with '060,' possibly as early as December, marking the first addition of a new number in 11 years.

A large sinkhole was found on the taxiway of Miyazaki Airport on Wednesday, caused by the explosion of a 500-pound U.S.-made bomb.

MEDIA CHANNELS
         

MORE Travel NEWS

Tokyo Tower has launched its first-ever premium tour following the renovation of its observation deck. Starting from october 5th, the 'TOKYO DIAMOND TOUR' will limit entry to just 70 guests per day, offering an exclusive experience inside Tokyo Tower.

A large sinkhole was found on the taxiway of Miyazaki Airport on Wednesday, caused by the explosion of a 500-pound U.S.-made bomb.

Kyoto has launched a pilot project called the 'HANDS FREE BUS' to tackle overtourism and alleviate congestion on city buses, particularly caused by tourists with large luggage.

The Naniwa Yodogawa Fireworks Festival, a staple of Osaka's summer tradition, was captured in its full glory. Featuring footage shot by ytv cameramen, who poured their collective efforts into capturing the event, the video includes stunning scenes filmed from a helicopter.

In preparation for Halloween on October 31, Tokyo Disneyland has unveiled its newly revamped parade for the first time in six years.

Japan is reportedly the most popular destination for Chinese travelers during a current week-long holiday. (NHK)

Natsuki and I travel across the country to 'Heaven's Bridge' to see if it truly is one of Japan's most scenic sights. (Abroad in Japan)

Are you and your girlfriend in need of some quality time together? Do you want to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and focus on reconnecting with each other?