Major wildfire breaks out near French city - with flights suspended at airport

Flights have been suspended at Marseille Provence Airport due to a wildfire raging close to the southern French port city, local authorities said Tuesday.

The local fire service said on X that 168 firefighters had been deployed to fight the blaze of around 30 hectares near the town of Les Pennes-Mirabeau, north of the city.

Fire engines and helicopters were also being used.

Some residents were urged to close shutters, doors and stay inside. They were also told to avoiding travelling on roads.

The spokesperson for Marseille airport said planes had not been taking off or landing since around midday and some flights had been diverted to Nice, Nimes and other regional airports.

It was unclear when the airport would reopen.

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