[Sportschosun] A tense situation unfolded on a domestic flight in China when a passenger's portable power bank overheated, filling the cabin with thick smoke. The fire did not spread, but the sudden smoke caused passengers intense fear and confusion.
According to Chinese media outlets, including The Times, smoke began coming from a passenger's power bank on Tianjin Airlines flight GS7829, which departed Tianjin on the morning of the 15th and was headed to Jieyang in Guangdong Province.
Witnesses said the smoke suddenly began spreading through the cabin as the plane was preparing to land.
One passenger said, "At first, I didn't know what was happening, but then things gradually became chaotic." The passenger added, "The smoke was very thick. I couldn't see any flames, but the burning smell was extremely strong."
Video posted on Social Network Service (SNS) showed flight attendants rushing to the scene and bringing the situation under control.
An in-flight announcement said, "A fire situation has occurred in the cabin," and, "We are currently carrying out extinguishing procedures, so please remain calm."
The airline said the power bank overheated and produced smoke, and that the crew responded immediately in accordance with procedures to prevent further damage.
A Tianjin Airlines official said, "The crew detected the situation immediately and took appropriate action according to procedure." The official added, "There were no injuries, and no damage occurred to the aircraft's facilities or equipment."
After landing, passengers reportedly left the plane first without their luggage, then returned to the cabin to retrieve their belongings after safety checks were completed.
Meanwhile, the global aviation industry has recently been stepping up warnings about the fire risk posed by power banks.
Lithium-ion batteries can enter a "thermal runaway" condition due to impact, defects, or overheating. In such cases, extreme heat, smoke, and fire can develop within a short time. As a result, many airlines and aviation authorities prohibit power banks in checked baggage and strictly regulate capacity and safety certification standards for items brought into the cabin.
Reporter Jang Jong-ho bellho@sportschosun.com
