CaliToday (19/10/2025): A domestic flight in China was forced to make an emergency landing on Sunday after a fire ignited in the aircraft's cargo hold, an incident officials are attributing to a battery stored in a passenger's checked baggage.
The flight, which was en route between two major Chinese cities, declared an emergency approximately one hour after takeoff. Pilots in the cockpit received a fire indicator alarm corresponding to the aft cargo compartment.
According to reports from the airline and aviation authorities, the flight crew immediately activated the aircraft’s fire suppression system and initiated an emergency diversion to the nearest available airport.
On-ground emergency services were scrambled and met the aircraft as it landed safely. Passengers were evacuated from the plane, some via emergency slides, as a precautionary measure. Firefighting crews entered the cargo hold and confirmed that the fire, which had been contained by the onboard suppression system, was fully extinguished.
No serious injuries were reported among the passengers or crew, although a few individuals were treated for minor ailments related to the rapid evacuation.
A preliminary investigation by airport authorities and the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) quickly identified the source of the blaze. A charred suitcase was recovered from the cargo hold, and investigators confirmed that a lithium-ion battery pack—believed to be a portable charger or "power bank" had experienced a thermal runaway, igniting the surrounding luggage.
This incident serves as a critical reminder of international aviation safety regulations. Most airlines worldwide, including all Chinese carriers, strictly prohibit spare lithium-ion batteries and power banks from being placed in checked luggage. These devices are prone to overheating and fire, and safety protocols require them to be kept in the passenger cabin (carry-on baggage) where a fire can be quickly identified and addressed by the crew.
The airline praised the flight crew for their professionalism and swift adherence to emergency procedures, which ensured the safety of everyone on board. A full investigation is ongoing.
