Saturday, March 22, 2025
Flight U-Turn Due to Lost Mobile Phone
On March 21, Air France flight AF750, a Boeing 777-300ER, was en route from Paris Orly (ORY) to Pointe-à-Pitre (PTP), Guadeloupe, with 375 passengers and crew on board. Shortly after takeoff, a passenger reported losing their mobile phone. Despite an extensive search by both the cabin crew and fellow travelers, the phone could not be found.
Prioritizing safety, the pilots decided to turn the aircraft back toward Paris Orly, even though it had already reached the coast of Portugal. The flight entered a holding pattern to conduct one final search before returning to the airport. Approximately two hours after departure, the flight safely landed back at Orly. The airline planned to retrieve the lost phone and resume the journey once safety checks were completed.
Risks of Lithium-Ion Batteries in Aviation
Lithium-ion batteries, commonly found in devices like smartphones and power banks, present significant fire risks in aviation if damaged or overheated. Airlines worldwide have imposed strict safety measures to minimize these risks, including prohibiting passengers from charging power banks in-flight and storing them in overhead compartments.
A particular concern arises when a mobile phone is lost inside an aircraft seat. If the phone becomes wedged in the seat’s reclining mechanism, it could be crushed, potentially causing a “thermal runaway” event—an uncontrollable battery fire that is challenging to extinguish. Given the confined space of an aircraft cabin, such fires can present a serious threat.
To mitigate these risks, passengers should follow safety guidelines:
Airlines are continually updating their safety protocols to address these hazards, prioritizing passenger security.
Other Recent Incidents and Airline Responses
Concerns about lithium-ion batteries on aircraft are growing. A recent incident on a Hong Kong Airlines flight involved a fire in an overhead compartment, reportedly caused by an overheating power bank. The cabin crew responded quickly, using available liquids, including fruit juice, to put out the fire before it spread.
In response to such incidents, several airlines have tightened their policies. From April 1, Singapore Airlines and Malaysia Airlines will prohibit charging power banks in-seat. Additionally, some carriers are restricting power bank storage in overhead bins, ensuring they can be closely monitored for signs of overheating.
Conclusion
The Air France flight AF750 incident serves as a reminder of the significant risks lithium-ion batteries can pose on aircraft. As airlines implement stricter regulations, passengers must also play their part by handling electronic devices with care. By following guidelines and remaining vigilant, travelers can contribute to a safer flying environment for everyone.
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