Bermuda's Airport.

Now they are anxiously awaiting the results of a probe into the riddle.

Fire officers, Government officials and airport staff have mounted an investigation.

It is thought the noxious smell came from air conditioning near the US departures area where passengers are screened.

The immediate area was sealed off when the fumes were detected at about 4 p.m.

on Tuesday.

Firemen and Police were called to the scene, but there was no evacuation.

Yesterday airport manager Mr. Larry LaChapelle said he was baffled by the smell, which soon disappeared.

"I have no idea what the cause was, but the problem seems to have gone away.'' Mr. LaChapelle said several staff and passengers were affected.

"Fortunately it happened at a time of low activity at the airport, but some people suffered discomfort.

"They suffered various symptoms, including watery eyes and some respiratory problems.

"They were fairly minor, and nobody was taken to hospital or needed treatment.

"They obviously, however, want to know what caused the smell.'' Mr. LaChapelle was unable to say whether the fumes were harmful.

"We have to wait to see whether we can unravel the mystery. I have never known anything like this,'' he added.

Mr. LaChapelle said it appeared the fumes came from air conditioning near the US departures pre-board screening area.

"That is the area we are focusing on because of the nature of the odour and where it was encountered.'' He added Works and Engineering staff and air conditioning technicians were helping the investigation.

"People from the health and safety department or the environmental health department will also probably take part,'' said Mr. LaChapelle.