An Air China flight encountered a critical situation on Saturday when a lithium battery in a passenger’s carry-on luggage ignited. This incident necessitated an emergency landing in Shanghai, demonstrating the inherent risks associated with transporting lithium batteries on flights.
Flight Details and Emergency Response
Flight CA139 departed from Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport at 9:47 AM local time, carrying 160 individuals, including passengers and crew members. The plane was en route to Incheon International Airport in South Korea when the emergency arose.
As smoke began to fill the cabin, video footage shared on social media platforms showed flames and thick smoke emerging from an overhead compartment. The crew acted quickly, with two flight attendants sprinting down the aisle wielding fire extinguishers, while other staff urged passengers to stay seated.
Safety Measures and Investigation
Air China reported that the fire originated from a lithium battery stored in a passenger’s carry-on. Fortunately, the crew responded promptly, ensuring that no injuries occurred during the incident. The aircraft diverted to Shanghai Pudong International Airport to prioritize safety.
- Flight Details:
- Flight Number: CA139
- Departure Time: 9:47 AM
- Origin: Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport
- Destination: Incheon International Airport
- Passengers on Board: 160
- Incident Timing: The aircraft landed safely in Shanghai around 11 AM.
Following the emergency landing, a replacement plane was arranged to transport passengers to their destination in Seoul. Witnesses reported a loud explosion before seeing flames, and some shared their experiences of the surprising incident, which included a few minutes of confusion among the passengers.
Wider Concerns over Lithium Batteries
While local reports suggested the ignited device was likely a power bank, authorities have not confirmed its brand or make. This incident adds to a growing list of similar occurrences involving lithium batteries on flights operated by Asian airlines this year.
As this situation unfolds, it highlights the importance of handling lithium batteries with care and raises awareness around flight safety protocols concerning electronic devices.
