Laptop Blaze Forces Emergency Landing on US Flight, Investigation Laun

One person received medical treatment after a passenger's laptop caught fire on an American Airlines flight. The plane made an emergency landing in Dallas, Texas, on Friday.

Laptop Blaze Forces Emergency Landing on US Flight

The pilot had reported a "cabin fire in the back of the airplane" to air traffic control, saying "the flight attendants are trying to put it out now," according to audio obtained by the BBC's US reporting partner CBS News.

One passenger received medical attention on site and was released after American Airlines Flight 2398, coming from Atlanta, Georgia, landed safely at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport.

FAA Warns of Lithium Battery Risks

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) warns that lithium batteries, including laptop batteries, are capable of overheating "as a result of various factors, including if the battery is damaged, overheated, exposed to water, overcharged, or improperly packed." The FAA recorded 58 verified lithium battery air incidents so far this year involving smoke, fire, or extreme heat.

In the last 20 years, the highest number of incidents was related to battery packs, with 84 cases related to laptops. Lithium batteries must be stowed in carry-on baggage only, the US regulator says.

Power Bank Risks Highlighted in Aviation Industry

The UK's aviation regulator, the Civil Aviation Authority, has said power banks are causing a growing number of serious issues on flights worldwide. They urged more awareness as portable chargers carry "serious risks" of overheating or catching fire.

Source: JOY