A routine Air China flight from Hangzhou to Seoul turned into a tense emergency on Saturday when a lithium battery inside a passenger’s carry-on bag suddenly caught fire. The blaze erupted in the overhead compartment, sending smoke billowing through the cabin.
Flight CA139 had taken off at 9:47 a.m. local time when the incident occurred. Cabin crew acted swiftly, following safety protocols to contain the fire before it could spread, while passengers assisted in controlling the smoke. Remarkably, no injuries were reported.
Images shared by Chinese media outlets showed thick smoke and flames rising from an overhead bin, highlighting the speed and seriousness of the situation. The aircraft made an immediate U-turn and safely landed at Shanghai Pudong International Airport shortly after 11 a.m., prioritizing passenger safety.
Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel
Flight tracking data confirmed the unexpected diversion, underscoring the rapid response by both crew and airport authorities. Airline officials have launched an investigation into the incident, emphasizing the importance of handling lithium batteries carefully during air travel.
Lithium-ion batteries, commonly found in power banks, laptops, and electronic devices, have long been recognized as a fire risk when damaged or improperly handled. Experts warn that even small sparks in confined aircraft spaces can escalate quickly, making early detection and containment critical.
Passengers on CA139 described the scene as chaotic yet controlled, praising the professionalism of the cabin crew. Despite the scare, the incident ended safely, leaving travelers relieved as the flight continued its journey under close monitoring.
