Mid-Air Fire in Overhead Locker of Passenger Jet Linked to Common Travel Item Carried by Millions

Mid-Air Fire in Overhead Locker of Passenger Jet Linked to Common Travel Item

A recent incident involving a sudden fire inside the overhead locker of a commercial airliner has been attributed to an overheating power bank, a common travel item carried by millions of passengers daily. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) released a comprehensive report on the July 21 occurrence, shedding light on the potential dangers associated with certain travel accessories.

The episode unfolded aboard a Virgin Australia flight, specifically a Boeing 737-800 en route from Sydney, New South Wales, to Hobart, Tasmania. Approximately 10 minutes prior to landing, a member of the flight crew noticed smoke and flames emanating from an overhead locker, accompanied by what was described as a “popping and hissing sound,” as detailed in the ATSB report. The urgency of the situation was compounded when a passenger’s backpack was discovered ablaze once the locker was opened by a flight attendant.

In a swift response, the cabin crew swiftly contained the fire using a fire extinguisher, with additional assistance from passengers who helped douse the flames with water until all signs of smoke dissipated. Fortunately, the aircraft was able to land safely without further incident. Following the landing, a burnt power bank was retrieved from inside the damaged backpack by aviation rescue firefighters.

The investigation conducted by the ATSB pinpointed the origin of the fire to a lithium-ion battery within the power bank undergoing a thermal runaway. This phenomenon occurs when a battery cell malfunctions, causing a rapid escalation in temperature, explained the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). Shockingly, the owner of the power bank confirmed to Virgin Australia that the item was relatively new, undamaged, and had not been subjected to extreme conditions prior to the flight.

As highlighted in the report, the cabin crew faced challenges in executing the lithium battery firefighting protocol due to the limited timeframe before the aircraft’s imminent landing. Moreover, issues arose with the utilization of the provided protective breathing equipment, rendering it ineffective in the emergency. Consequently, Virgin Australia promptly reassessed its policies concerning the carriage of power banks and loose batteries on flights.

Effective from December 1, passengers are now required to stow all power banks, spare batteries, and loose battery units in their carry-on luggage, ensuring they are adequately shielded from potential damage. Additionally, lithium-ion batteries must be encapsulated within individual retail packaging or separate protective bags, accurately labelled, and devoid of any signs of impairment. These items are strictly prohibited from storage within overhead lockers, with passengers instructed to secure them in seat pockets, underneath the seat in front, or on their person.

To further mitigate risks associated with lithium battery fires, passengers are advised to exercise caution when travelling with electronic devices containing such batteries. It’s imperative to pack these devices securely, within easy reach during the flight, and to refrain from boarding an aircraft if any devices exhibit signs of deterioration or damage, asserted the ATSB in a safety advisory.

In conclusion, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential hazards posed by everyday travel items, underscoring the critical importance of adhering to safety guidelines and regulations issued by airlines. As air travel resumes post-pandemic, ensuring passenger safety remains a top priority for aviation authorities and carriers worldwide.

Contacted for comment, Virgin Australia is yet to respond to queries. The incident underscores the need for vigilance and adherence to safety protocols while travelling, with a clear emphasis on the responsible handling of electronic devices containing lithium batteries. Failure to comply with safety guidelines poses significant risks to passengers, crew members, and the overall safety of air travel operations.