A power bank stored in an overhead bin caught fire on a China Eastern flight that had landed at Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport on July 24. The incident filled the cabin with smoke and prompted quick action by crew members using fire extinguishers and water bottles. Passengers were evacuated safely with no serious injuries reported. Video of the event spread rapidly on social media. The episode has renewed attention to lithium-ion battery risks in aviation. Such batteries can reach very high temperatures during thermal runaway and may reignite after appearing extinguished. Airlines worldwide have responded by tightening rules on portable chargers. Many carriers now require power banks to stay in cabin baggage only. Units up to 100Wh are generally allowed without approval, while those between 100Wh and 160Wh often need permission. Devices above 160Wh remain prohibited. Several airlines also discourage in-flight charging and advise keeping chargers visible rather than stored overhead. Similar incidents involving other carriers have led regulators in parts of Asia, including South Korea and Japan, to adopt stricter policies. Experts note that charging raises battery temperature and can delay detection if a fault occurs out of sight. Aviation authorities continue to recommend that travelers inspect chargers for damage or swelling before flights and carry only certified units.
