Passengers aboard a Chinese Tianjin Airlines jet were alarmed when a power bank malfunctioned, causing the cabin to fill with dense smoke during the flight. The incident occurred as the plane was nearing its destination, prompting concerns about a potential fire onboard.
Witnesses described the smoke as thick and the smell as intense, though no open flames were observed. Cabin crew swiftly responded to the situation, informing passengers of a fire scenario and instructing them to remain calm while firefighting protocols were enacted.
The power bank overheated just before the aircraft was due to land on the morning of June 15. The flight had originated from Tianjin Binhai International Airport in China and safely landed at Jieyang Chaoshan International Airport in Guangdong Province. Following the landing, passengers were asked to disembark without their luggage temporarily before retrieving their belongings.
According to a Tianjin Airlines spokesperson, the crew promptly addressed the smoking power bank, ensuring no injuries or damage to the aircraft. The incident led to a delay of approximately one hour and 12 minutes. The airline advises passengers to verify that their power banks meet certification requirements and not to place them in checked baggage.
While no injuries occurred and the plane remained unscathed, the event underscores the importance of adhering to safety regulations regarding power banks on flights. Airlines globally are increasingly enforcing stricter guidelines on these devices due to a rise in thermal runaway incidents.