Powerbank exploded on board Air China CA139 aircraft [VIDEO]

The powerbank explosion aboard the Air China CA139 flight forced the aircraft to crash landing in Shanghai.

Air safety and lithium batteries

Powerbank exploded in a storage compartment for hand luggage while flying from Hangzhou to Seoul.The crew acted immediately, and passengers were not injured, although the atmosphere was tensed as during an unexpected car accident on the road.​

Air China CA139 incident course

• The flight was on Airbus A321-232.
• The source of the fire was a lithium battery, most likely from a powerbank in a hand luggage.
• After the explosion, flames and dense smoke appeared, which the crew quickly mastered using fire extinguishers and emergency procedures.
• The emergency landing decision was made immediately and the aircraft arrived safely in Shanghai.​
• Air China sent another plane to continue the passenger journey.

Why are lithium batteries dangerous?

Lithium-ion batteries, present in powerbanks, smartphones or laptops, may be subject to the so-called "thermal runaway" – a sudden increase in temperature that causes their ignition or explosion. High temperature and short circuit are the most common causes of such incidents. Similar situations have occurred on Air China CA139 in other countries before, with more than 120 cases of powerbank explosions reported in Japan in only one year.

Safety on board

Chinese and global airlines are increasingly aggressive in transporting lithium batteries. In China, batteries must have a safety certificate ‘3C’ and in Japan the designation ‘PSE’ applies. More and more carriers introduce powerbank limits and recommend that they be transported only in hand luggage.​

Recommendations to passengers

• Carry only certified powerbanks (e.g. "3C" in Asia).
• Avoid cheap, unknown brands.
• Do not leave powerbanks connected to devices during flight.
• Check the equipment for signs of overheating or bulge.
• Always store your batteries in a visible and easily accessible place.

Technology – what changes in the world of batteries?

Companies implement new technologies that eliminate the risk of explosion – e.g. semi-solid battery cells or penetration tests, which show high resistance to failures. Despite progress, users should treat powerbanks as a potential source of danger – as they should not underestimate faulty wires at home.​

Safe flight, but consciousness grows

The powerbank explosion on Air China CA139 did not end in tragedy, but recalls that new technologies require responsibility. It is worth taking care of the quality of the equipment and following the instructions to travel without stress and risk and protect yourself and other passengers.