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Air China Flight Diverts to Shanghai After Lithium Battery Ignites in Overhead Bin

Cabin crew contained the blaze with no injuries reported.

Overview

  • Flight CA139 from Hangzhou to Seoul diverted to Shanghai Pudong on October 18 after an in-cabin fire.
  • Air China said a passenger’s carry-on lithium battery ignited in an overhead compartment, and the crew followed procedures.
  • A passenger photo published by state-affiliated Jimu News showed flames and black smoke as travelers attempted to help.
  • Flightradar24 data indicated the jet departed at 09:47 local time, turned back over the sea near Kyushu, and landed in Shanghai shortly after 11:00.
  • The airline issued its account on Weibo, and while no probe results have been released, the incident highlights recurring inflight battery fire risks.