RFS district manager Troy Porter said the fire started on land at the back of Mudgee Wines before spreading to Mudgee Airport, where runways had to be closed because of poor visibility.

However by late afternoon the fire had been contained, Mr Porter said, and the airport’s main runway had been reopened.

Twelve appliances had been used to contain the blaze, which burnt five hectares, and no property was damaged.

Crews were still on the scene mopping up late on Friday afternoon and an investigation was under way into the cause of the fire.