Alert
  • Published: 6 Jan 2026

Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB): Power bank fire on a Virgin Australia flight to Hobart

Screenshot 2026 01 06 142816
Screenshot 2026 01 06 142816

Description of Incident

A power bank fire in the overhead locker of a Boeing 737 illustrates the importance of passengers following new airline guidance to keep their lithium battery devices easily accessible.

The final report from an ATSB investigation into the serious 21 July 2025 incident explains the Virgin Australia aircraft was descending towards Hobart when a cabin crew member identified smoke and flames coming from an overhead locker.

Click here for more information on the incident, a short Youtube clip and the final ATSB investigation report.

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