A US bomb, likely from World War II, exploded near the runway at Miyazaki Airport in southwest Japan on Wednesday, forcing its closure. The blast left a 7-metre-wide, 1-metre-deep crater on the taxiway, leading authorities to shut down the runway. A bomb disposal team confirmed the explosion was caused by a US bomb buried beneath the surface, dating back to a wartime air raid.
No injuries were reported. The shutdown has grounded 87 flights, but officials say there's no risk of further explosions, according to a report by the South China Morning Post. Repairs to fill the crater are expected to be completed by Thursday morning, said Japan's top government spokesperson, Yoshimasa Hayashi. Officials are also investigating the cause of the sudden detonation.
The incident has disrupted flights operated by major carriers such as Japan Airlines (JAL), All Nippon Airways (ANA), and others, affecting connections between Miyazaki and key cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka, as per the airport's website. Airlines are working to resume normal operations once repairs are completed.
Despite the end of World War II over 79 years ago, unexploded bombs remain a threat. Miyazaki Airport has previously uncovered several unexploded bombs, according to the transport ministry. In 2023 alone, the Self-Defense Forces disposed of 2,348 bombs weighing 37.5 tonnes.
Originally a Japanese naval base during World War II, Miyazaki Airport now serves domestic and international flights.