A lithium battery spontaneously combusted in an overhead bin on an Air China flight, forcing an emergency landing. The airline confirmed that there were no injuries, though the incident has raised concerns about the safety of storing lithium batteries in aircraft. A video shared on social media shows the overhead bin on fire, sending smoke through the cabin and alarming passengers. The footage, which has since gone viral, has sparked discussions about the risks associated with carrying such batteries on planes.
Air China has released a statement expressing its commitment to passenger safety and has pledged to investigate the cause of the incident. The airline has also emphasized the importance of following proper procedures for handling lithium batteries on board. The incident comes at a time when airlines are under increased scrutiny regarding the transportation of such hazardous materials.
Experts have called for stricter regulations on the storage of lithium batteries in aircraft, highlighting the potential dangers posed by their volatile nature. The incident has also prompted calls for greater awareness among travelers about the risks of carrying such batteries in their luggage. In the aftermath of the incident, Air China has announced plans to review its safety protocols and has requested passengers to follow the guidelines for handling lithium batteries during flights.