A British Airways flight from London to Las Vegas had a dramatic incident when a mobile phone burst into flames mid-air. Cabin crew had to use fire extinguishers to put out the blaze on board BA Flight 271, which was approaching Harry Reid International Airport on Monday (June 15).
Passengers Describe Panic and Response
A passenger on the flight reported that flames erupted from a window seat on row 37. Some passengers fled for safety while others tried to help extinguish the fire. Flight attendants rushed with fire extinguishers, repeatedly asking passengers to move to gain access.
The flight landed safely at Las Vegas without any injuries. Audio from the incident captures the pilot calmly informing the airport: "Speedbird Vegas 271, we're currently on an emergency arrival into Las Vegas. We've had a fire in the cabin. It was a mobile phone that caught. Has scorched the inside of the cabin. It's under control currently."
Crew Training and Battery Issues
A witness said a crew member mentioned they had trained for such events but the fire progressed faster than expected. The crew member noted that a battery had been repeatedly igniting. Another crew member initially thought the commotion was a celebration before realizing it was a fire.
The Federal Aviation Administration will investigate the incident. A British Airways spokesperson confirmed: "The safety of our customers and crew is the highest priority. The flight landed safely and customers disembarked normally."
BA Policies on Lithium Batteries
British Airways allows up to 15 battery-operated personal electronic devices containing lithium batteries, such as laptops, tablets, smartphones, and smart baggage tags. Passengers must ensure devices are packed to prevent accidental activation and must not carry damaged batteries or electrical equipment.
In hand baggage, devices may be energized while in use but must be switched off or placed in flight safe mode as directed by crew. In checked baggage, devices must be completely switched off. Spare batteries are forbidden in checked baggage and must be carried in the cabin.
