A MASSIVE fire near the Phoenix airport has led to a nightmare for travelers after flames triggered explosions and damaged dozens of cars.

The fire tore through an Arizona propane business on Thursday and sent tanks of gas flying 500 yards into the air like "missiles."

Firefighters battled the flames next to the Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport beginning at around 5pm while enduring record-breaking 119-degree heat.

Phoenix Fire Captain Rob McDade called the situation at the propane shop "very dangerous," adding of the gas tanks: "They literally become missiles."

More than 150 firefighters raced to the scene and cleared a mile radius around the business.

The blaze forced the Arizona Animal Welfare League to evacuate and the airport closed its western entrance as a precaution.

One building north of the propane business briefly caught fire but crews put it out, according to PFD Captain Scott Douglas.

Locals reporters said they heard multiple explosions and photos showed charred vehicles at an airport parking lot.

Dozens of cars were damaged, according to local news outlet KTVK.

No injuries were reported as firefighters stamped out the flames.