Fire Engulfs Aircraft Maintenance Facility, Residents Advised to Stay Indoors

Schkeuditz, Saxony - A significant fire erupted at an aircraft maintenance facility in Schkeuditz near Leipzig, leading to extensive damage and prompting emergency services to act swiftly. The blaze occurred in the evening, engulfing the HEICO Aircraft Maintenance warehouse, with flames soaring high into the sky and toxic smoke billowing into the night.

Approximately 100 firefighters were deployed to combat the fire on Döbichauer Straße, where the facility is located. The situation escalated as large clouds of dark smoke rose above the industrial area, prompting immediate safety measures. Firefighters utilized protective gear and water, tackling the inferno from both the ground and via two aerial ladders.

As a precaution, local residents were alerted through various channels, including radio broadcasts, the NINA warning app, and loudspeaker announcements, advising them to close their windows and doors due to the presence of hazardous materials within the facility. The warehouse housed various paints and other toxic substances, raising concerns for public safety.

The fire resulted in the complete destruction of the warehouse, which was used for storing aircraft spare parts. Fire Chief Lutz Bransdor stated that coordination with the Technical Relief Agency (THW) was crucial, as they provided heavy machinery to aid in controlling the situation. Firefighters focused on cooling the site and ensuring any remaining hazardous materials were secure.

By the early hours of Saturday, the fire was extinguished, and fortunately, there were no reported injuries. However, the facility suffered catastrophic damage, and the financial implications are expected to be in the millions, though an exact figure has not yet been determined.

A police spokesperson indicated that the cause of the fire remains unknown, and investigators from the criminal police are set to examine the scene to determine the origin of the blaze. Although the emergency warnings for local residents have been lifted, some emergency personnel will remain on-site to ensure the area is safe.