Recent reports from UL Standards have shown a troubling trend in the overheating of devices powered by lithium-ion batteries during airline flights. The incidents have increased by 28% from 2019 to 2023, raising concerns about the safety of passengers and crew members on board.
One alarming finding from the report is that e-cigarettes are the most common devices to overheat during flights. In fact, they are more likely to overheat than any other device. This poses a significant risk, as thermal runaway incidents occurred in 60% of cases near the passenger’s seat who brought the device on board.
The consequences of lithium-ion battery overheating on flights can be severe. For example, a smoking laptop in a passenger’s bag caused the evacuation of a plane at San Francisco International Airport. Another incident involved a battery catching fire in an overhead bin, leading to an emergency landing.
It is concerning to note that more than one-quarter of surveyed passengers admitted to putting e-cigarettes and portable chargers in their checked bags, which goes against federal regulations. The TSA strictly prohibits such items in checked baggage due to the increased risk of fires in the cargo hold.
According to data from the FAA, there were 37 thermal-runaway incidents on planes in 2023 through Aug. 15, with 77 reports in the previous year. While these incidents are relatively uncommon considering the number of flights operated each week, the risks associated with lithium-ion battery overheating are still significant.
In light of previous incidents involving lithium-ion batteries, the aviation industry has been urged to reconsider safety measures. Despite calls for stricter standards, some carriers continue to carry bulk battery shipments, posing a potential risk to passengers and crew members.
As the use of lithium-ion battery-powered devices becomes increasingly common on airline flights, it is essential to address the risks associated with overheating. Passengers and airlines alike must adhere to regulations and take necessary precautions to prevent incidents that could jeopardize the safety of everyone on board.