Mid-Air Mayhem: Air China Flight Forced to Divert After Passenger's Power Bank Bursts into Flames

Passengers aboard Air China flight CA403 from Chengdu to Singapore found themselves engulfed in a terrifying mid-air emergency when a seemingly innocuous power bank spontaneously combusted, filling the cabin with thick smoke and triggering widespread panic. The incident, which unfolded on Monday morning (local time), forced the pilots to make an urgent diversion to Kuala Lumpur, turning a routine journey into a harrowing ordeal.

Viral videos captured the sheer chaos and fear among passengers as the cabin rapidly filled with smoke emanating from the burning lithium-ion battery.

The footage showed flight attendants valiantly battling the blaze with fire extinguishers while reassuring frightened passengers. Flames and sparks were visible, adding to the palpable tension onboard.

Air China confirmed the incident, stating that the crew of flight CA403 encountered smoke in the cargo hold after the flight departed Chengdu Tianfu International Airport.

However, subsequent reports and passenger accounts, corroborated by videos, indicated the fire originated from a passenger's portable power bank within the cabin itself. The airline later clarified that "some passengers’ portable power bank caught fire."

The swift action of the cabin crew was crucial in containing the situation.

They immediately worked to extinguish the flames and manage the escalating panic, ensuring that safety protocols were followed. Despite their efforts, several passengers sustained minor injuries, including smoke inhalation and superficial scratches, as they grappled with the sudden and unexpected danger.

The aircraft, a twin-engine Airbus A320, was safely diverted to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) where it made an emergency landing.

Upon arrival, passengers were safely disembarked, and emergency services were on standby. Images from the ground showed the plane parked on the tarmac with emergency vehicles nearby, underscoring the severity of the incident.

This alarming event serves as a stark reminder of the potential hazards posed by lithium-ion batteries, especially when carried in cabins.

Aviation authorities worldwide have stringent regulations regarding the transportation of such devices, often recommending they be carried in carry-on luggage where any issues can be immediately addressed, rather than in checked baggage. This incident underscores the critical importance of adhering to these safety guidelines to prevent similar terrifying occurrences in the future and protect the lives of those travelling by air.