A powerbank explosion led to a dramatic evacuation of approximately 150 passengers at Melbourne Airport’s Qantas business lounge on Thursday, March 14, 2024. The incident occurred around 11:00 a.m. when a portable charger ignited in a man’s pocket, resulting in flames engulfing his jacket and prompting widespread panic among travelers.
Witnesses reported hearing screams as the device exploded, scattering battery acid throughout the area. According to a local news outlet, The Sydney Morning Herald, airport staff quickly responded, ushering the burning passenger into a shower while evacuating the entire lounge. The man, who is in his 50s, sustained burns to his leg and fingers but was later reported to be in stable condition after treatment.
Passengers described the chaotic scene, with one individual sharing a photo of the damaged powerbank on social media. “His jacket caught on fire. They evacuated us because the smoke and smell was so strong, but I really just hope the guy is okay,” the traveler wrote.
Leanne Tonkes, a film producer who witnessed the event, praised the prompt action of both the staff and fellow passengers. “Quick thinking from the man who jumped in to help and the staff who got him in the shower and everyone else out of the lounge,” she commented on Instagram.
Response and Policy Review
Emergency services transported the injured man to The Alfred hospital where he received further medical care. Following the incident, Qantas initiated a review of its lithium battery policies, reflecting growing concerns over the safety of such devices on airplanes.
This incident is not isolated; Virgin Australia also announced a review of its policies after a similar incident involving a powerbank fire in an overhead compartment during a Sydney-to-Hobart flight in July 2023. Airlines worldwide are increasingly under pressure to enhance safety measures related to battery-operated devices.
In a related move, Emirates recently banned the use of powerbanks across its fleet of 266 aircraft, limiting passengers to one device each. South Korea implemented nationwide restrictions in March 2024 after a January incident on an Air Busan flight injured 27 individuals.
The International Air Transport Association has raised alarms regarding public awareness of the risks associated with lithium batteries. Reports indicate that nearly half of all passengers mistakenly believe carrying these devices in checked luggage poses no risk, reinforcing the need for ongoing education and regulatory updates.
As airlines navigate these challenges, the recent explosion at Melbourne Airport serves as a stark reminder of the potential hazards posed by portable chargers. The incident has sparked significant discourse on safety protocols within the aviation industry, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced measures to protect passengers and crew alike.
As of now, Melbourne Airport has not provided any official comments regarding the incident or its aftermath.
