Yamagata airport officials faced significant challenges this week as a black bear caused a series of disruptions, leading to the cancellation of a dozen flights. The animal was first spotted in the early hours of Thursday, prompting a suspension of operations and various delays. Just as officials believed the situation was under control, the bear returned to the runway. Video footage shared by The Guardian shows the bear moving across the grounds with its mouth open, even climbing onto a fence. In response to the bear’s unexpected reappearance, airport personnel attempted to scare it away using a vehicle equipped with flashing lights, yet the bear remains at large. An official from Yamagata airport remarked, “We’re in a stalemate now.” Adding to the concern, hunters have arrived on-site to set a trap for the bear, while police guard the perimeter. Recent increases in bear sightings throughout Japan have raised alarms among airport staff, leading to fears that this bear could be accompanied by others.
