Shanghai: A major scare unfolded aboard Air China flight CA139 from Hangzhou to Seoul on Saturday when a lithium battery in a passenger’s cabin bag caught fire mid-air, forcing the aircraft to make an emergency landing at Shanghai Pudong International Airport.
According to the airline, the fire broke out shortly after takeoff, originating from a battery kept in an overhead luggage compartment. Videos circulating on social media show panic-stricken passengers screaming as thick smoke fills the cabin, while flight attendants rush with fire extinguishers to contain the blaze. The passengers can be heard shouting “Hurry up!” as the crew battles the flames.
Air China confirmed that the crew acted swiftly, extinguishing the fire within minutes and diverting the flight to Shanghai as a precaution. The aircraft landed safely, and no injuries were reported.
The flight, which had departed Hangzhou at 9:47 a.m., was originally scheduled to arrive at Incheon International Airport at 12:20 p.m. local time. Following the emergency landing, passengers were provided assistance and rebooked to continue their journey.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the battery fire, with aviation experts once again highlighting the dangers of carrying lithium batteries in unchecked or poorly packed conditions.
Be the first to comment