Post by : Rameen Ariff

Melbourne – A 50-year-old man suffered significant burns at Melbourne International Airport after a lithium power bank exploded in his pocket while inside the Qantas business class lounge on Thursday around 11 a.m. local time. The explosion generated smoke, necessitating the immediate evacuation of 150 passengers.

Quick action by airport personnel ensured the man received assistance, helping him into a shower prior to the arrival of paramedics. He was subsequently transported to a nearby hospital for extensive treatment. Eyewitnesses recounted a hectic atmosphere, with one individual remarking that “battery acid was flying everywhere.”

Film producer Leanne Tonkes, one of the people present, posted an image of the scorched power bank on the lounge floor and commended the airport staff for their rapid response. She shared on social media: “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.”

Following the incident, Qantas has announced a review of its policies concerning lithium battery devices. While power banks are typically allowed in the cabin, airlines worldwide are increasingly imposing restrictions due to heightened safety concerns.

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority notes a staggering 92 percent increase in incidents involving lithium batteries within Australia. In response to similar issues, Emirates has prohibited power banks on its flights, while Virgin Australia now mandates that such devices stay within arm’s reach after an earlier in-flight fire.

This troubling incident underscores the rising dangers associated with lithium battery devices on aircraft and the pressing need for stricter safety measures. Authorities and airlines are urging passengers to treat these devices with caution and adhere to airline-specific safety protocols to avert further mishaps.

#Global