Passengers on an Air China flight from Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport to Seoul experienced a terrifying ordeal when a lithium battery inside a carry-on luggage caught fire, filling the cabin with smoke. The incident led to an emergency landing in Shanghai after the crew swiftly extinguished the flames. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the plane was diverted as a precaution.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes onboard as crew members and passengers worked together to tackle the fire, with one passenger recalling a loud explosion preceding the flames. Despite the alarming situation, the quick response of the crew averted a potential disaster.
Following the incident, Air China confirmed that the fire was caused by a lithium battery in a passenger’s carry-on luggage stored in the overhead compartment. The airline praised the crew for their prompt action in handling the situation.
This incident is one of several involving lithium batteries on flights in the region this year, highlighting the potential dangers associated with these devices. Authorities have not disclosed specific details about the type or manufacturer of the battery that caused the fire. Passengers were later transferred to another aircraft to continue their journey to Seoul, relieved but undoubtedly shaken by the harrowing experience.