Air China Flight Makes Emergency Landing After Lithium Battery Ignites Mid-Air

An Air China flight from Hangzhou to Seoul made an emergency landing in Shanghai on Saturday after a lithium battery caught fire inside the cabin, prompting brief panic among passengers.

Flight CA139, carrying more than 160 people on board, diverted to Shanghai Pudong International Airport after smoke was seen coming from an overhead luggage compartment. The aircraft landed safely, and no injuries were reported.

💥 Fire Contained Mid-Air
Air China said in a statement that a lithium battery inside a passenger’s carry-on bag “spontaneously ignited” during the flight. Cabin crew quickly extinguished the fire and followed all safety procedures.

Videos shared online appeared to show smoke and flames coming from an overhead bin, with passengers calling for help as crew members rushed to put out the blaze.

⚠️ Increasing Battery Incidents
The event adds to a growing number of mid-air emergencies linked to lithium batteries in recent years. In several cases across Asia, overheated or damaged power banks have forced flights to divert or return shortly after takeoff.

✈️ Tighter Safety Rules
Aviation authorities have strengthened regulations on carrying lithium batteries and power banks on board. Many airlines now require passengers to store such devices under seats instead of in overhead bins, and only certified power banks are permitted.

✅ Airline’s Follow-Up
Air China confirmed that the fire was contained quickly, and the aircraft was undamaged. A replacement plane was arranged so passengers could continue their journey to Seoul.

Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the battery ignition and ensure compliance with flight safety standards.