Power bank sparks fire on T’way air flight

A lithium-ion power bank caught fire aboard a T’way Air Boeing 737-8 MAX during a flight from Sanya, China, to Cheongju, South Korea, the airline confirmed.

The incident occurred while the aircraft was cruising at an altitude of approximately 10,600 meters Cabin crew quickly detected smoke and followed safety procedures by placing the burning battery into an airtight containment device. The fire was extinguished, and the aircraft continued its flight to Cheongju without making an emergency diversion, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media. 

Eight people on board were affected by toxic smoke inhalation. Three of them were taken to hospital after landing for further medical evaluation. There were 38 people on board the aircraft, including 32 passengers.

No serious injuries were reported, and aviation authorities are reviewing the incident.

By Sabina Mammadli