An EasyJet flight from Hurghada, Egypt, to London Luton was diverted to Rome after a passenger reported a power bank charging in someone's luggage. The airline stated the diversion was a precautionary measure, and the flight was rescheduled for the following day.
Flight EZY2618 departed Hurghada and was due to land early on Wednesday but instead touched down at Rome Fiumicino. Passengers were accommodated in hotels overnight, and those remaining at the airport received refreshments.
An EasyJet spokesperson said: 'The captain then took the decision to divert as a precaution in line with safety regulations. The aircraft landed safely and passengers disembarked routinely.'
EasyJet prohibits the use or charging of power banks on its flights. Passengers may carry no more than two power banks in carry-on baggage only, and they must be protected in individual packaging.
The Civil Aviation Authority has warned that lithium batteries, found in power banks and other devices, can cause intense fires if faulty or damaged. They should be carried in cabin baggage, turned off, and not in standby mode.
