Power bank likely caused fire on Virgin Flight VA1528

Virgin Australia is reportedly reviewing its policies on carriage and use of lithium-ion batteries and power banks on board as it launches an investigation into a fire onboard a passenger jet on Monday (July 21, 2025).

Flight VA1528, a Boeing 737-800, from Sydney landed safely in Hobart after the fire broke out in an overhead compartment.

The blaze was reported to have started during the aircraft's descent, at around 9 am. 

Power bank ignites

The cause of fire: a portable power bank in a passenger’s bag. 

The airline confirmed the incident.

“The fire was extinguished by Virgin Australia cabin crew prior to landing. Airservices Australia firefighters attended the aircraft once it landed and removed a bag from the overhead locker. All guests disembarked the aircraft, as per standard operating procedures,” a Virgin spokesperson told Australian Aviation.

The policy review, conducted alongside Australian aviation authorities, could lead to potential permanent changes aimed at improving passenger safety.

Lithium-ion safety issues

The airline confirmed that the fire was likely ignited by a portable lithium-ion power bank stored in a passenger’s carry-on luggage. 

The well-trained cabin crew swiftly extinguished the fire before the plane safely landed at Hobart Airport. 

Upon arrival, airport firefighters removed the affected bag from the overhead compartment. 

Smoke inhalation

All passengers disembarked normally under standard safety protocols. One passenger received paramedic attention for suspected smoke inhalation, and crew members were assessed but confirmed to have no injuries, according to Australian Aviation.

Following the incident, the outbound Virgin flight back to Sydney was delayed for safety checks. Operations at Hobart Airport otherwise proceeded as usual.

Virgin Australia is working alongside the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) and the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) to investigate the incident. 

Safety concern

Lithium-ion power banks, while convenient for charging devices, pose inherent risks because of their chemical composition. 

These batteries can overheat, catch fire, or even explode if damaged, defective, or improperly handled. 

The confined cabin environment and proximity to flammable materials amplify these dangers during flight.

This recent fire incident highlights the continuing aviation safety challenge posed by lithium-ion power banks and the urgent need for stricter policies, regulation, and passenger awareness to prevent potential disasters onboard aircraft.

Virgin Australia’s ongoing investigation will contribute to shaping safer power bank policies in the future.

Fire incidents

Power bank-related fires have been an escalating concern for airlines worldwide. 

For example, a January 2025 fire on an Air Busan A321 in South Korea—also started by a power bank—resulted in minor injuries and total aircraft loss. 

That incident led to numerous airlines banning the use or charging of power banks mid-flight, including Singapore Airlines, Scoot, Thai Airways, and others.

Regulatory bodies, including the International Air Transport Association (IATA), mandate that power banks must be carried only in cabin baggage, never in checked luggage, due to the high risk lithium batteries pose if stored in inaccessible cargo holds.

TIMELINE

Here's a timeline of recent power bank-related midflight incidents

• January 2025: Air Busan flight fire, engulfs A321 aircraft, caused by a power bank; resulted in evacuation and injuries.

• April 2025: Singapore Airlines bans charging power banks from onboard USB ports across all flights.

• July 21, 2025: Virgin Australia Flight VA1528 fire caused by power bank in overhead locker; extinguished safely with no injuries; ongoing investigation

(Sources: Australian Aviation, Travel and Tour World).

Challenges and industry response

The surge in lithium battery-powered devices and power banks has outpaced regulation and safety standards.

Experts emphasise that many power banks on the market lack consistent manufacturing standards and transparency about battery materials, making it difficult for regulators to enforce comprehensive safety. 

Airlines encourage passengers to keep power banks under observation, avoid charging them mid-flight, and never stow them in checked baggage. 

They also stress using original packaging or protective cases to prevent short circuits.