A lithium power bank explosion at Melbourne Airport’s Qantas business lounge on Thursday morning resulted in minor injuries to a passenger and the temporary evacuation of over 150 people, underscoring persistent safety concerns regarding personal electronic devices in air travel. The incident unfolded when the device ignited inside a male passenger’s pocket, prompting immediate action from airport staff and bystanders to extinguish the flames and treat the man, who was subsequently taken to a hospital for burns before being released.
The passenger, reported to be in his 50s, sustained burns to his leg and fingers. Witnesses described a chaotic scene where smoke quickly filled the exclusive lounge area, noting that the battery fluid sprayed as the overheated device erupted. Quick-thinking staff members guided the injured man to a shower to douse the blaze. Following the incident, which occurred on Thursday, November 7, 2025, the lounge was thoroughly cleaned and resumed operations within approximately two hours. Australian film producer Leanne Tonkes, who was present, captured an image of the severely damaged device and publicly commended the swift, life-saving response from staff and fellow travelers.
Airline Safety Regulations Under Review
This incident, coupled with a similar power bank-related fire on a Virgin Australia flight in July, has catalyzed a renewed focus on airline regulations concerning portable charging devices. Qantas confirmed it is currently reviewing its policies for carrying lithium-powered devices, including power banks, and anticipates issuing updated guidance soon.
Experts stress that lithium-ion batteries, when damaged, heated, or improperly handled, pose a significant fire risk due to thermal runaway—a dangerous and rapid chain reaction that increases temperature and pressure.
Key Recommendations for Carrying Power Banks:
Airlines generally advise passengers to carry spare lithium batteries and power banks in the cabin rather than in checked luggage or overhead compartments. The rationale is that if a device does ignite, crew members can immediately address the fire with specialized equipment.
- Visibility: Keep the power bank readily accessible, such as in a seat pocket or a small bag under the seat.
- Charging Ban: Internationally, several major carriers, including Singapore Airlines, Emirates, Cathay Pacific, Korean Air, and China Airlines, explicitly prohibit the use and in-flight charging of power banks.
- Capacity Limits: Strict capacity limits often apply. Many operators permit no more than two spare batteries or power banks rated between 100 watt-hours (Wh) and 160Wh. Passengers should check their device specifications before traveling.
Separate Incident Rocks Brisbane Airport
In an unrelated event later that same Thursday evening, a Virgin Australia Boeing 737-800 experienced a brake fire upon landing at Brisbane Airport. Flight VA454, arriving from Darwin around 7:00 PM local time, triggered an emergency response after its brake system ignited during the rollout. Airport fire crews successfully extinguished the blaze.
Virgin Australia confirmed that all 178 passengers and crew disembarked safely and without injury. Engineers are set to thoroughly examine the aircraft to determine the exact cause of the brake fire before deeming it safe to return to service. The airline stated that the incident did not cause broader delays and was not expected to impact the following day’s flight schedule.
While both airport incidents were resolved without serious harm, they serve as potent reminders of the acute risks associated with aviation safety, demanding continued vigilance from both travelers in adherence to safety protocols and airlines in maintaining rigorous operational standards. Passengers are encouraged to consult their specific carrier’s rules on battery carriage before every flight to mitigate risks.