In a shocking incident that has reignited concerns over the safety of portable chargers on airplanes, a Hong Kong Airlines flight was forced to make an emergency landing when a power bank caught fire shortly after takeoff. The events unfolded on Flight HX115, which was traveling from Hangzhou to Hong Kong, just 15 minutes into its journey.

The Airbus A320-232 experienced a frightening scene as smoke and flames erupted from the overhead compartment. Quick-thinking passengers and crew members leaped into action, utilizing water and juice to extinguish the flames. One nervous passenger likened the urgency of the situation to a scene from an action movie.

Emergency Landing in Fuzhou

To ensure the safety of everyone on board, the aircraft was diverted to Fuzhou Changle International Airport, where it landed safely. Fortunately, no injuries were reported despite the frightening episode, and video footage captured the moment when passengers left their seats, some crouching in the aisle amid the chaos.

Upon landing, emergency services were on standby, but their assistance was ultimately unnecessary as the fire had been contained swiftly by the crew. Hong Kong Airlines later confirmed that the fire was successfully extinguished and reiterated their commitment to passenger safety. The airline stated, “We are grateful for the swift action taken by our crew and passengers.”

Wider Implications for Airline Regulations

The incident is a stark reminder of the dangers posed by lithium battery-powered devices, which have been involved in several alarming cases worldwide. Major airlines like Singapore Airlines and EVA Air have already started implementing stricter regulations regarding power banks to safeguard travelers.

As an example of precautionary measures, Singapore Airlines has announced a ban on using portable chargers during flights starting April 1, 2025. Similarly, EVA Air has tightened its policies, prohibiting passengers from carrying power banks onboard and from checking them in as luggage.

This incident follows another case earlier this year when an Air Busan flight from Busan to Hong Kong faced a similar fire, believed to be triggered by a power bank, prompting many airlines in the region to reconsider their policies on lithium battery devices.

As travel resumes globally, understanding and adhering to airline regulations regarding power banks is essential. Passengers are urged to stay informed about the potential hazards these devices can pose, especially in confined spaces like an aircraft cabin. Your next flight might just depend on it.