Emergency crews moved to protect a wooded area after a fire started around 20:30 Monday in Derio's San Isidro district, near Loiu Airport. Firefighters from Derio, Basauri and Artazar responded alongside a specialist forest unit.
The fire's proximity to one of the Basque Country's basic airports raised concerns about possible disruption and the risk of flames reaching critical infrastructure. No flights were affected by late Monday as crews worked to contain the fire and stop it spreading. Radio Nervión reported that Aena confirmed all flights remained on schedule and airport operations continued without disruption.
Information from the Department of Security, the fire began in a patch of pampas grass, an invasive plant that burns easily and has become a recurring problem for local authorities. The flames spread quickly through the vegetation, forcing responders to act fast to keep the fire away from homes and airport facilities. ElDiario.es Euskadi reported that the blaze was fully extinguished overnight. No injuries were reported, and two rural homes were evacuated as a precaution.
Rough terrain and shifting winds made the firefighters' work more difficult. Teams from several towns joined the response. By late evening, crews were still securing the area and watching for flare-ups. Ultima Hora / Europa Press reported that the fire posed a real threat to the forest and nearby infrastructure, prompting the forest service to join local brigades.
After the fire was brought under control between 03:15 and 05:30, crews established a monitoring post at the site to guard against reignition. ElDiario.es Euskadi later reported that the threat to the airport had lifted and the situation had fully normalized.
The incident highlights the vulnerability of peri-urban forests in the Basque Country, particularly during dry periods when pampas grass and other invasive plants raise fire risks. The location near Loiu Airport also shows how environmental hazards can threaten impressive infrastructure. Controlling the spread of flammable invasive species remains a challenge for public safety and regional mobility.
