AIRPORT and airline officials remind travelers that power banks are strictly prohibited in checked baggage due to the risk of overheating and potentially spark fire inside airplanes.
Passengers are advised to keep their power banks with their personal belongings, either under the seat or in the seat pocket in front of them, rather than in the overhead compartments. The use of power banks during the flight is also not allowed.
On Monday, authorities were able to prevent a fire incident at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport after smoke was reported coming from the baggage carousel in Terminal 1.
“The situation was promptly handled, resulting in no injuries or damage to airport facilities,” said the New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC), the airport’s private operator,
The smoke was observed coming from Baggage Carousel 3 around 4:55 p.m.
“Airport emergency response teams were immediately took action, and passengers nearby were safely evacuated as a precaution. The area was secured, and ventilation measures were implemented to dissipate the smoke,” said NNIC.
Airport officials identified the source of the smoke as a power bank that had likely fallen from a passenger’s luggage into the carousel system. “The device caused a minor spark, resulting in the smoke. It was immediately contained and the carousel remained fully operational after testing.”
Clean-up of the area was completed shortly afterward, and terminal operations continued without further disruptions.
“We thank all responding teams and partner agencies for their swift action. The safety and well-being of passengers remain our top priority,” the NNIC stated.
Passengers may bring power banks with a capacity of up to 100Wh. For those with a capacity between 100Wh and 160Wh, passengers can request approval at the check-in counter.
Authorities emphasized the importance of following these guidelines and the safety protocols established by airlines concerning the transport, use, and storage of power banks on commercial flights. Adhering to these measures is essential for ensuring passenger safety and preventing in-flight incidents caused by the misuse or malfunction of lithium batteries.