NZ pilot in Fort Lauderdale: Airport security the 'biggest problem

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• A New Zealand pilot who landed at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport just before the shooting says security is still the "biggest problem".

A New Zealand pilot who landed at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport just before the shooting says security is still the "biggest problem".

Caryn Haynes, an Airbus A320 Captain for Spirit Airlines arrived into Terminal 3 from Atlantic City before the shooting.

"The biggest problem I see right now is ramp and aircraft security," Haynes said.

"There are hundreds of 'unscreened' people loose on the ramps, taxiways and runways that have unprecedented access to our aircrafts."

Law enforcement personnel shield civilians outside a garage area. Photo / AP

A lone shooter opened fire at the airport today, killing five people and wounding eight others.

Panicked travellers took cover behind chairs, and witnesses said the suspected gunman stopped only when his bullets ran out.

People stand on the tarmac following the shooting. Photo / AP

"I have received communications from both my airline and our union regarding the situation and the airport is indefinitely closed at this point," Caryn said.

Her family, who are visiting from New Zealand, had picked her up from the airport and were "well clear" before the incident.

"We are now watching the live news feeds," Caryn added