Overview
• Operator: Batik Air
• Aircraft Model: Boeing 737-800
• Registration: 9M-LNP
• Flight Number: OD-530
• Route: Johor Bahru (Malaysia) to Bangkok Don Mueang (Thailand)
• Date: 24 February 2025
• Occupants: Not specified
• Casualties: None
• Nature of Incident: Power bank thermal runaway in overhead locker
Incident Summary
A Batik Air Boeing 737-800, operating flight OD-530 from Johor Bahru to Bangkok Don Mueang, was cruising at FL380 near the top of descent into Bangkok when a passenger’s power bank stored in an overhead locker suffered a thermal runaway, emitting smoke into the cabin.
Cabin crew acted swiftly, securing the overheating power bank in a fire containment bag, preventing further escalation.
The aircraft continued its descent and landed safely on Runway 21R at Don Mueang Airport approximately 30 minutes after the incident.
Following the event, the aircraft remained on the ground for about 8.5 hours, departing for its next scheduled flight with a delay of 7 hours.
Sequence of Events
Pre-incident Conditions:
• The aircraft was cruising at FL380, preparing for descent into Bangkok.
• No issues were reported prior to the incident.
Thermal Runaway Event:
• A passenger’s power bank, stored in an overhead bin, began emitting smoke, indicating a lithium-ion battery failure and thermal runaway.
• Cabin crew quickly responded, isolating the power bank and securing it in a fire containment bag to prevent further heat buildup or fire.
Safe Landing & Post-incident Handling:
• The aircraft continued its approach and landed without further issues on Runway 21R at Don Mueang.
• The aircraft remained grounded for 8.5 hours, likely for cabin inspections and safety checks, before resuming operations with a 7-hour delay.
Investigation & Findings
Potential Causes of Thermal Runaway:
• Battery overcharging or internal short-circuit.
• Manufacturing defects in lithium-ion cells.
• Improper handling, storage, or damage to the power bank.
• Exposure to excessive heat or pressure changes during flight.
Cabin Crew Response & Safety Measures:
• The crew acted swiftly to contain the overheating battery, preventing further escalation.
• Use of fire containment bags effectively mitigated the risk of cabin fire.
• Standard aviation safety procedures for lithium-ion battery fires were correctly followed.
Analysis & Safety Recommendations
For Airlines & Passengers:
• Passengers should avoid placing power banks in overhead bins—they should remain in carry-on baggage and accessible at all times.
• Power banks should always be switched off and stored properly to prevent accidental activation or overheating.
• Airlines should continue enforcing strict rules on lithium-ion batteries, including watt-hour limits and proper handling procedures.
• Cabin crew should undergo regular training on lithium-ion fire containment techniques.
For Aircraft Operators & Regulatory Authorities:
• Mandatory cabin crew training for lithium-ion battery incidents should be reinforced.
• Consider updating passenger guidance on power bank storage and handling.
• Improve pre-flight safety briefings to include warnings about power bank usage and storage.
Conclusion
This incident highlights the risks associated with lithium-ion power banks on aircraft and the importance of proper storage and handling.
The Batik Air cabin crew responded effectively, ensuring the safe containment of the overheating battery and preventing a potential fire.
The aircraft landed without further issues, and while it remained grounded for 8.5 hours for safety checks, no injuries or damage were reported.
This case reinforces the need for passenger awareness, proper airline safety protocols, and strict adherence to lithium-ion battery regulations to mitigate in-flight risks.
Disclaimer
“This report is based on available information as of 28 February 2025. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the completeness of the details cannot be guaranteed. If you are the rightful owner of any referenced materials and wish them removed, please email takedown@cockpitking.com.”
