SEOUL- South Korean aviation authorities reported 13 aircraft fires triggered by electronic device batteries between 2020 and 2024, according to data released by the Land, Infrastructure and Transport Ministry.
The investigation reveals power banks caused nine incidents, while telephone and e-cigarette batteries each caused one fire. Two incidents remain without identified causes, the Korea Herald reported.
South Korean Planes Fire
The frequency of these incidents shows an upward trend, with one case in 2020, six cases in 2023, and six more in 2024. Fire durations ranged from 20 seconds to five minutes, with crew members successfully extinguishing all incidents before major aircraft damage occurred.
A recent Air Busan aircraft fire on January 28 has intensified national safety concerns, as preliminary investigations point to a power bank as the potential cause.
Korean airlines have implemented new safety protocols in response to these incidents. The measures include prohibiting passengers from storing power banks in overhead compartments to minimize fire risks during flights.
These incidents reflect broader global aviation safety concerns regarding the transportation of lithium-ion batteries and portable electronic devices on commercial aircraft. The rising number of battery-related fires highlights the growing challenge of managing passenger electronic devices in air travel.
Air Busan A321 Fire Incident
An Air Busan Airbus A321 experienced a tail section fire at Gimhae International Airport in Busan, South Korea, during pre-flight preparations to Hong Kong on Tuesday at 10:30 p.m.
Airport emergency teams executed immediate evacuation procedures, safely removing all 176 passengers and crew members from the aircraft. Fire response units deployed to combat the blaze in the tail section.
Initial reports identify the aircraft as flight BX391, an Airbus A321-231 with registration number HL7729, equipped with IAE engines, though these details await official confirmation.
The evacuation process concluded without injuries or casualties, according to local authority statements. Emergency responders continue fire suppression operations in the aircraft’s tail section.
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