Air Busan disallow power banks in overhead bins after plane fire

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The South Korean airline Air Busan announced on Tuesday that it will prohibit passengers from storing power banks in the overhead bins of the cabin. This measure, aimed at preventing onboard fires, was implemented after one of the company’s planes caught fire on January 28 while preparing to take off for Hong Kong.

The Incident: A Wake-Up Call for the Industry

The fire was detected in an overhead bins on the left rear side of the plane by a flight attendant. Fortunately, all passengers and crew were evacuated without major incidents. However, the event raised concerns about the risks associated with lithium batteries, commonly used in electronic devices such as mobile phones, laptops, tablets, and e-cigarettes.

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Enhanced Safety Measures

In response to the incident, the airline has decided to ban passengers from storing power banks in the overhead bins. Instead, batteries must remain with passengers so that, in the event of overheating, smoke, or fire, they can be quickly detected and controlled.

To ensure compliance with the new rule, carry-on luggage will be inspected at the boarding gates. If it does not contain power banks, it will be tagged and allowed to be stored in the overhead bins. The airline has begun implementing this policy on test routes starting Friday, with plans to extend it to all flights soon.

Risks of Lithium Batteries in Aviation

Lithium batteries have been subject to strict regulations in aviation due to their potential to cause intense fires if they short-circuit, whether due to manufacturing defects or physical damage. International regulations prohibit their transport in checked luggage, but until now, their storage in overhead bins has been permitted.

Cabin crews are equipped with fire extinguishers and thermal containment bags designed to isolate devices that malfunction. However, Air Busan’s decision highlights the growing concern over incidents related to these devices and the need to reinforce in-flight precautions.

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