Monday, September 9, 2024 As air travel continues to grow, airlines are grappling with a rising number of incidents involving devices powered by lithium-ion batteries overheating mid-flight that casues even emergency landing. According to a recent report by UL Standards, such overheating events have increased by 28% between 2019 and 2023. While these occurrences are still considered rare, they have become a significant safety concern for airlines.
Lithium-ion batteries, commonly found in electronic devices like laptops, smartphones, and e-cigarettes, can experience a phenomenon called thermal runaway. This happens when a battery overheats, leading to a fire or explosion. According to the report, 35 airlines reported an increase in such incidents, with e-cigarettes overheating more frequently than any other device.
One key factor contributing to the rising risk is passengers placing lithium-ion-powered devices, such as portable chargers and vaping products, in their checked luggage, which is against federal rules. Fires that start in the cargo hold can be more dangerous because they may not be detected as quickly, increasing the chances of a catastrophic event. Category Details Lithium-Ion Battery Incidents Overheating events up by 28% from 2019 to 2023.
E-cigarettes lead in incidents, especially in-flight. Devices at Risk Laptops, smartphones, e-cigarettes, and portable chargers with lithium-ion batteries. Common Causes of Risk Passengers placing lithium-powered devices in ch.