An investigation into a fire that destroyed an Air Busan plane at Gimhae International Airport in January indicates a faulty power bank in the luggage compartment likely started the blaze. The incident has led to increased safety measures, including a nationwide requirement for passengers to carry portable batteries onboard.
South Korea Plane Fire Linked to Faulty Power Bank: Investigators
South Korea Plane Fire Linked to Faulty Power Bank: Investigators
Preliminary findings suggest a malfunctioning power bank may have ignited a fire on an Air Busan flight, prompting stricter regulations for handling lithium-ion batteries in air travel.
A recent investigation has revealed that a malfunctioning portable power bank may be the culprit behind a devastating fire that engulfed an Air Busan passenger plane on January 28 at Gimhae International Airport in South Korea. Authorities reported that the fire originated in the luggage compartment, resulting in minor injuries for three passengers.
Interim findings from the South Korean transport ministry point to a breakdown in insulation within the power bank's battery as a probable cause for the fire. The power bank was discovered where the fire ignited, with scorch marks evident on the debris. However, investigators have not yet determined the specific reason for this battery malfunction.
It is important to note that these findings are preliminary and do not constitute a final report on the Airbus A321ceo's incident. Given safety concerns associated with lithium-ion batteries, airlines globally have long prohibited power banks from checked baggage due to the risk of overheating, extreme heat, and potential fires from battery malfunction.
In light of the Air Busan fire, the airline enhanced its onboard regulations, banning power banks from passenger luggage entirely in response to a growing incidence of overheating devices. This proactive measure follows similar policy changes by airlines worldwide, including China Airlines and Thai Airways, while Singapore Airlines is poised to implement a similar prohibition from April.
On February 28, the South Korean government mandated that passengers must carry portable chargers and batteries on their person when boarding flights, instead of storing these items in overhead compartments, underscoring a significant shift in safety protocols for air travel in the region.
