A Virgin Australia flight was dramatically evacuated after a passenger's power bank burst into flames mid-air, filling the cabin with smoke and forcing an emergency response.
The incident occurred on a flight from Queenstown, New Zealand, to Melbourne, Australia, before the plane was diverted to Hobart Airport in Tasmania. Passengers reported hearing a loud "pop" before smoke rapidly spread through the cabin.
Emergency Landing and Evacuation
Crew members acted swiftly, using fire extinguishers to contain the blaze while the pilot initiated an emergency landing. Once on the ground, all passengers were evacuated via emergency slides as a precaution.
"It was terrifying—one minute everything was normal, the next there was smoke everywhere," said one passenger. "The crew handled it really well, but it was a close call."
Lithium-Ion Battery Risks
The fire was traced to a lithium-ion power bank, a common travel accessory used to charge phones and other devices. Aviation authorities have long warned about the dangers of these batteries overheating or short-circuiting in flight.
- Lithium-ion batteries can ignite if damaged or exposed to extreme temperatures.
- Airlines impose strict limits on carrying such devices in checked luggage.
- Passengers are advised to keep power banks in carry-on bags where any incidents can be quickly managed.
Increased Scrutiny on In-Flight Safety
This incident adds to growing concerns over in-flight fires caused by electronic devices. Aviation regulators may review safety protocols to prevent similar emergencies in the future.
Virgin Australia confirmed that no serious injuries were reported, though some passengers were treated for smoke inhalation. The airline praised its crew for their "exceptional professionalism" during the crisis.
