🔥 Lithium Battery Fire Forces Emergency Landing on Air China Flight
By: Sabrine News
Date: October 19, 2025
An Air China flight traveling from Hangzhou, China, to Incheon, South Korea, was forced to make an emergency landing at Shanghai Pudong International Airport after a lithium battery in a passenger’s carry-on bag caught fire inside the overhead compartment.
✈️ Quick Response Prevents Disaster
According to airline officials, the cabin crew acted immediately to contain and extinguish the flames using onboard fire extinguishers. The incident caused light smoke in the cabin but was quickly brought under control.
The aircraft landed safely, and no injuries were reported among passengers or crew members.
⚠️ Ongoing Investigation
Air China confirmed that the cause of the battery fire is under investigation, and authorities are checking whether the device met airline regulations for lithium battery transport.
🔋 Background: Lithium Battery Risks in Aviation
Incidents involving lithium batteries catching fire have become an increasing concern for airlines worldwide. Due to their high energy density, lithium-ion cells can overheat or short-circuit if damaged, leading to thermal runaway — a chain reaction that can cause smoke, fire, or even explosions.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and civil aviation regulators strictly limit how lithium batteries can be carried on flights, requiring that spare batteries be stored in carry-on luggage rather than checked baggage, and that terminals be covered to prevent short circuits.
🧾 References
Air China Statement – Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) – Reuters