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By Howon P. Seo - https://www.flickr.com/photos/143332909@N04/54239129559/, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=158739841
03 Feb 2025

Lithium battery completely destroys plane just before take off - 176 people emergency evacuated

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An Air Busan Airbus A321 caught fire at Gimhae International Airport in Busan, South Korea, on January 28, 2025, just before takeoff. 

The fire, which started in the rear section of the aircraft, caused significant damage to the fuselage but left the wings and engines intact. 

All 176 people on board, including 169 passengers and 7 crew members, were safely evacuated using emergency slides. Seven people sustained mostly minor injuries, with one person remaining hospitalized.

Photos on the internet shows the top of the plane's fuselage completely burned off. 

 

Photo Credit: Wikipedia Commons License

By Howon P. Seo - https://www.flickr.com/photos/143332909@N04/54239129559/, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=158739841

 

  1. Cause of the Fire: Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, with initial reports suggesting it may have been triggered by a portable battery stored in an overhead bin. The South Korean transport ministry has not yet disclosed the findings of the investigation.
  2. Response and Evacuation: Firefighters arrived on the scene within minutes and managed to extinguish the fire by 23:31. Passengers reported hearing crackling sounds and seeing flames in the overhead compartment before the evacuation was ordered.
  3. Previous Incidents: This incident follows a tragic crash involving a Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 at Muan International Airport on December 29, 2024, which killed 179 people. The aviation industry is under scrutiny as it deals with the increased risks posed by lithium batteries and other electronic devices.

 

Airlines, fire authorities, and fire services are increasingly focused on mitigating the risks associated with lithium batteries on planes. Here are some key measures and considerations:

 

Airlines

  • Carry-On Only: Most airlines require lithium batteries to be carried in the cabin, not checked luggage, due to the risk of fire.
  • Watt-Hour Limits: Airlines enforce watt-hour (Wh) limits for lithium batteries. For example, batteries under 100Wh are generally allowed, while those over 160Wh are prohibited.
  • In-Flight Announcements: Airlines are making more in-flight announcements to remind passengers to keep lithium batteries with them rather than stowed away in overhead bins.

 

Fire Authorities

  • Regulations and Inspections: Fire authorities are calling for stricter regulations and inspections for battery storage facilities. This includes ensuring proper fire prevention and suppression systems are in place.
  • Local Control: Authorities are advocating for local control over the siting of battery storage facilities to ensure they are located away from sensitive areas like schools and hospitals.
  • Training and Education: Fire services are focusing on training and education for first responders to handle lithium battery fires effectively.

 

Fire Services

  • Early Detection and Response: Fire services emphasize the importance of early detection and swift action to prevent lithium battery fires from escalating.
  • Specialized Equipment: Fire services are investing in specialized equipment and techniques to manage lithium battery fires, which can involve thermal runaway and the release of toxic gases.
  • Public Awareness: Fire services are also working on public awareness campaigns to educate people about the safe handling and storage of lithium batteries.

 

 

Additional Information from Other Sources:

 

CBS News: Air Busan plane fire at Gimhae International Airport Aerotime: Air Busan Airbus A321 fire at 

Gimhae Airport Aviation Week: Air Busan A321 catches fire at Gimhae International Airport 

Wikipedia: Air Busan Flight 391 

Simple Flying: Air Busan Airbus A321 gutted by fire at Gimhae International Airport

 

FAA: Lithium Batteries in Carry-On and Checked Bags 

CDC: Lithium-Ion Batteries 

IATA: Lithium Batteries 

NFPA: Battery Safety