Passengers on board a China Eastern Airlines domestic flight were left shaken after a power bank reportedly caught fire inside an overhead compartment shortly after the aircraft landed at Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport in China.
The incident took place on July 24, with videos circulating online showing smoke and flames emerging from the overhead luggage compartment as cabin crew rushed to contain the fire. Flight attendants were seen using fire extinguishing equipment to put out the blaze while passengers looked on.
No injuries were reported, and the situation was brought under control before it escalated further.
The airline has not publicly confirmed what caused the power bank to ignite. However, lithium-ion batteries, which are commonly found in power banks, are known to pose a fire risk if they are damaged, defective or experience thermal runaway.
Power Banks Remain a Safety Concern on Flights
The incident has reignited discussions over the safe carriage of portable batteries on aircraft.
Many airlines require passengers to carry power banks in their cabin baggage instead of checked luggage so that cabin crew can respond quickly if a battery overheats or catches fire. Several airlines also advise passengers not to place power banks in overhead compartments, recommending they be kept within easy reach instead.
Social media users reacting to the incident expressed mixed opinions. Some questioned whether the power bank had been charging another device when the fire broke out, while others called for stricter regulations or even an outright ban on bringing power banks onto flights.
Others pointed out that modern aircraft increasingly provide USB charging ports at passenger seats, reducing the need for travellers to rely on portable chargers during flights.
Authorities Yet to Reveal Exact Cause
At the time of writing, it remains unclear whether the power bank involved complied with certification requirements or whether improper use contributed to the incident.
Despite the dramatic scenes, the quick response by the cabin crew prevented the fire from spreading, with many online commenters praising their professionalism in handling the emergency.
The incident serves as another reminder for travellers to follow airline regulations regarding lithium-ion batteries and to ensure their power banks are in good condition before flying. Proper storage and avoiding damaged or counterfeit batteries can significantly reduce the risk of onboard battery fires.