Unexploded Ordinance from WWII Detonates at Japanese Airport, Halts Operations

Tokyo: A minor explosion at Miyazaki Airport in southern Japan was caused by an unexploded US bomb, officials confirmed on Wednesday, with reports suggesting the device likely dated back to World War II.

The blast occurred on a taxiway at the airport, which originated in 1943 as an Imperial Japanese Navy base, known for launching “kamikaze” suicide missions. Footage from Japanese media showed a dust cloud rising from the explosion, although no injuries were reported. However, part of the taxiway collapsed, leading to the cancellation of 55 flights, affecting over 3,400 passengers.

“After investigation with the Self-Defense Forces, we concluded that it was an explosion caused by an unexploded US bomb,” a transport ministry official told AFP. While it is not confirmed if the bomb was dropped during World War II, local media have indicated it likely was. Similar unexploded ordnance from the war had been found in the area in 2009 and 2011.

Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary, Yoshimasa Hayashi, stated that there was no risk of further explosions, and authorities are working to resume airport operations by Thursday. Police and firefighters are currently inspecting the site.