A fire in overhead locker on Virgin Australia flight VA1528 from Sydney to Hobart has raised fresh concerns about lithium battery safety after a passenger’s power bank reportedly ignited inside carry-on luggage. The incident occurred during descent on Monday, as smoke and flames emerged from a bag stored above the seats.
Video from the scene showed a quick-thinking flight attendant extinguishing the smoking bag with help from passengers and a fire extinguisher. No passengers or crew were injured, though one person was checked for smoke inhalation after landing. Firefighters removed the bag after arrival.
Virgin Australia called the response “swift and professional” and has launched an investigation with aviation regulators ATSB and CASA, warning that changes to its battery policy may follow. CASA already warns passengers to carry spare lithium batteries and power banks only in hand luggage, packed safely to avoid short-circuits and overheating.
Lithium battery incidents have spiked globally, with CASA citing a 92% rise in reports between 2020 and 2022. Airlines worldwide, including Singapore Airlines, have tightened rules on power banks due to fire risks.
The event highlights the growing hazards posed by the increasing number of battery-powered devices carried by passengers.
