Air Busan Bans Overhead Power Bank Storage After Fire Incident

South Korean budget airline Air Busan has announced a ban on storing power banks in overhead cabin bins following a fire that broke out aboard one of its aircraft on Jan. 28. The new policy, set to roll out on trial routes this week before expanding to all flights, requires passengers to keep power banks with them to enable quicker detection and response to potential overheating incidents.

The fire occurred at approximately 10:15 p.m. local time while the Airbus A321ceo was preparing for departure to Hong Kong from Gimhae International Airport. According to an airline spokesperson, a flight attendant first noticed the fire in an overhead luggage bin near the rear of the aircraft. The crew promptly initiated an emergency evacuation, deploying slides to evacuate all 169 passengers and seven crew members. No serious injuries were reported.

Authorities, including South Korea’s Aviation and Railway Accident Investigation Board, are investigating the incident. Representatives from France’s BEA, which investigates incidents involving Airbus aircraft, have also joined the inquiry.

In response to the incident, Air Busan has implemented additional safety measures, including enhanced fire training for crew members and the introduction of fire containment equipment on board. “These changes are being made to address the increasing number of overheating power banks,” an airline spokesperson said.

Lithium batteries, commonly used in power banks, laptops, and other electronic devices, are known to pose fire risks if they short-circuit due to manufacturing defects or damage. Global aviation safety regulations already prohibit placing such batteries in checked baggage. Air Busan's new policy reflects growing industry concerns over lithium battery-related incidents.

The damaged aircraft, which sustained burn damage to the fuselage roof while its wings and engines remained intact, remains parked at Gimhae International Airport. A canopy has been installed over the aircraft to facilitate a detailed inspection.

The incident comes amid increased scrutiny of aviation safety in South Korea following two major accidents within a month. On Dec. 29, a Jeju Air flight crashed at Muan Airport, killing 179 of the 181 people on board. Preliminary investigations suggest bird strikes as a contributing factor.

In response, South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport has announced the formation of a special committee to overhaul the country's aviation safety framework. 

“To restore trust in our country’s aviation safety system, the government will make a determined effort to rebuild the aviation safety system from the ground up,” said Baek Won-kuk, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport. The 10-week initiative will involve private sector experts examining aircraft maintenance, budget airline operations, and airport infrastructure improvements.