An aerial video recorded during the takeoff of a plane at Son Sant Joan airport shows the extent of the fire declared at MercaPalma. The flames have already burned six trucks and two trailers and are advancing towards the village of Son Banya, whose residents have been confined.
The footage taken from a plane taking off at midday from Son Sant Joan airport offers a striking perspective on the magnitude of the fire that has been devastating the MercaPalma facilities since early morning. The column of smoke, rising dozens of meters, extends over a wide area and has forced the confinement of residents from the nearby village of Son Banya.
The fire originated in a truck parked inside the MercaPalma industrial estate and has spread rapidly, reaching other vehicles. According to sources from the Palma Fire Brigade, six trucks and two trailers have been burned. The flames have continued to advance eastward, towards the village of Son Banya, an area known for its drug trafficking activities.
Confinement in Son Banya and delays at the airport
The National Police, which is investigating the causes of the incident, has ordered the confinement of Son Banya residents due to the dense smoke enveloping the area. The flames have also reached some accumulated debris and abandoned vehicles nearby, which has intensified the fire.
Despite the severity of the fire, Aena has reported that the operations at Son Sant Joan airport have not been affected. However, several flights have experienced delays, as aircraft must pass through the column of smoke during takeoff. The airport has activated the fire protection pre-alert plan as a precautionary measure.
Two firefighters treated and investigation underway
The high temperatures generated by the fire have required the treatment of two Palma firefighters at the scene. Both have been assisted by medical services and are out of danger, according to sources from the fire department.
Once the fire is under control and the area has cooled down, the Judicial Police of the National Police will begin collecting evidence to determine whether the fire was accidental or intentional. For now, the causes of the incident are unknown.
For the residents of the area, the situation is distressing. The column of smoke is visible from several points in Palma, and the residents of Son Banya remain confined in their homes, waiting for firefighters to stabilize the fire. The public is advised to avoid the area and keep windows closed.
Extinguishing efforts continue with multiple units from the Palma Fire Brigade, several fire stations from Mallorca, Aena firefighters, and National Police forces. It is expected that the fire will be brought under control in the coming hours, although the outcome will depend on weather conditions and the spread of the fire.
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