Airlines tighten safety rules after in-flight power bank fire
- Paul Aage Hegvik
- Feb 6
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 19
In the wake of a fire aboard an Air Busan flight preparing to depart from Gimhae International Airport to Hong Kong on January 28, 2025, the airline has implemented new safety protocols.
Recent incidents underscore the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries on aircraft. Preliminary investigations suggest that a power bank stored in an overhead bin may have ignited the blaze, leading to the evacuation of 169 passengers and seven crew members via inflatable slides. Seven individuals sustained injuries, with one remaining hospitalized. This is reported by South China Morning Post and other newspapers.
As a precautionary measure, Air Busan announced that passengers will no longer be permitted to store power banks in overhead compartments. Instead, these devices must be kept with passengers to facilitate immediate detection and response to potential overheating incidents. Additionally, the airline plans to enhance fire safety training for flight attendants and equip aircraft with more fire containment tools. These measures will initially be introduced on select routes before being expanded fleet-wide.
Similar incidents
The Air Busan incident is not isolated. In 2024, according to a Scoot flight taxiing for departure from Taipei Taoyuan International Airport experienced a fire when a passenger's power bank ignited. Two individuals were injured as a result.
These events underscore the dangers posed by lithium-ion batteries, which can overheat and cause fires if damaged or improperly handled. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recorded 77 incidents involving lithium batteries in 2024, marking a 71% increase from 2019. Power banks accounted for 16% of these cases.
Expert recommendations
Aviation safety experts advise passengers to:
Use reputable products: Opt for power banks from well-known manufacturers to ensure quality and safety standards.
Inspect devices regularly: Check power banks for signs of wear or damage before travel.
Avoid overhead storage: Keep power banks and other lithium-ion devices within reach during flights to quickly address any issues.
Adhere to airline policies: Follow specific guidelines provided by airlines regarding the carriage and use of electronic devices on board.
By taking these precautions, passengers can help mitigate the risks associated with carrying lithium-ion batteries during air travel.
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