A faulty power bank is suspected to have caused the fire that destroyed an Air Busan passenger plane at South Korea’s Gimhae International Airport on 28 January, according to investigators. Three people sustained minor injuries in the incident.

South Korea’s transport ministry revealed that the fire likely started due to insulation breakdown within the power bank’s battery. The device was found in an overhead luggage compartment, where the fire was first detected, and showed scorch marks. However, the exact reason for the battery failure remains unclear.

Lithium-ion batteries, commonly used in power banks, can overheat and catch fire if damaged. Since 2016, international aviation regulations have banned such batteries from checked luggage due to safety risks.

Following the incident, Air Busan tightened its rules, prohibiting passengers from carrying power banks in cabin luggage. Other airlines, including China Airlines and Thai Airways, are introducing similar measures. From 1 April, Singapore Airlines and Scoot will ban power bank usage and charging onboard.

In response, South Korea has mandated that passengers carry portable batteries and chargers on their person instead of storing them in overhead compartments, aiming to enhance flight safety.