A flight bound for Seattle was forced to turn back to Wichita, Kansas, on Sunday afternoon after a passenger's cell phone and an attached power bank began to overheat. The incident occurred shortly after departure on Horizon Air Flight 2117, an Embraer 175 jet.
The crew quickly addressed the situation, ensuring the safety of all onboard. This event highlights the growing concern over electronic device safety during air travel.
Key Takeaways
- Flight 2117, from Wichita to Seattle, returned to its origin.
- A passenger's cell phone and power bank overheated.
- Flight attendants used a containment bag for the devices.
- The passenger received medical attention upon landing.
- All other passengers reached Seattle on a later flight.
Emergency Landing in Wichita
The Horizon Air flight, operating as Alaska Airlines Flight 2117, departed Wichita for Seattle on Sunday. Shortly after takeoff, an issue arose when a passenger's personal electronic devices, specifically a cell phone and its accompanying power bank, started to overheat.
Airline representatives confirmed the quick response from the flight crew. The pilot made the decision to return to Wichita Eisenhower National Airport for safety precautions.
Device Safety on Flights
Lithium-ion batteries, commonly found in cell phones and power banks, can pose a fire risk if damaged or improperly stored. Airlines have specific guidelines for carrying these devices.
Crew Action and Passenger Care
During the return flight, flight attendants took immediate action. They placed the overheating phone and power bank into a specialized containment bag. These bags are standard equipment on many aircraft to safely manage thermal events.
Upon landing back in Wichita, emergency services were on standby. The passenger involved in the incident received medical attention at the gate. The extent of any injuries or discomfort was not immediately disclosed, but the airline confirmed assistance was provided.
"We appreciated their patience," an Alaska Airlines representative stated, referring to the other passengers on board.
Impact on Travelers
The unscheduled return to Wichita caused delays for the other passengers. However, Alaska Airlines confirmed that all affected travelers were able to continue their journey to Seattle on a later flight. The airline prioritized getting passengers to their destination safely.
Previous Incidents
Overheating electronic devices are not new to air travel. Airlines and regulatory bodies continually update safety protocols to manage these potential hazards. Passengers are often reminded to carry spare lithium batteries in carry-on luggage, not checked bags, to allow for quick intervention if an issue arises.
Airline Protocols for Device Incidents
Airlines have strict procedures in place for handling overheating electronic devices. These protocols often include the use of fire containment bags, specialized gloves, and clear instructions for flight attendants.
The goal is to prevent any small thermal event from escalating into a larger fire hazard that could compromise flight safety. Training for such situations is a routine part of flight attendant certification.
- Containment Bags: Designed to withstand extreme heat and contain smoke.
- Cooling Agents: Some crews use water or other non-flammable liquids to cool devices.
- Monitoring: Devices are often monitored for an extended period after a thermal event.
Preventative Measures for Passengers
Travelers can take steps to minimize the risk of device overheating. It is important to use genuine chargers and cables. Avoid purchasing cheap, uncertified power banks or batteries, as these are more prone to malfunction.
If a device feels unusually hot, passengers should alert flight attendants immediately. Storing power banks and spare batteries in carry-on luggage, not checked baggage, is a critical safety guideline.
Future of In-Flight Device Safety
The aviation industry continues to research and implement new technologies and regulations to enhance safety. As personal electronic devices become more prevalent, the focus on managing potential risks remains high. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of these safety measures for everyone on board.
The quick and effective response by the Horizon Air crew prevented a potentially more serious situation. Their actions ensured the safety and eventual onward travel of all passengers.
