Man Catches Fire at Melbourne Airport as Power Bank Explodes

Melbourne – A 50-year-old man was severely burned at Melbourne International Airport after a lithium power bank in his pocket exploded inside the Qantas business class lounge on Thursday at around 11 a.m. local time. The explosion caused smoke to fill the lounge, prompting a swift evacuation of 150 passengers.

Airport staff acted quickly to assist the man, helping him into a shower before paramedics arrived. He was then transported to a nearby hospital for further treatment. Witnesses described a chaotic scene, with one noting that “battery acid was flying everywhere.”

Film producer Leanne Tonkes, who was present during the incident, shared an image of the burnt power bank on the lounge floor and praised airport staff for their swift response. She wrote on social media: “Quick thinking from the man who jumped in to help and the staff who got him in the shower and everyone else out of the lounge.”

The Australian airline Qantas confirmed that it is reviewing its policies on lithium battery devices following the incident. While power banks are usually permitted in the cabin, airlines worldwide are increasingly restricting their use due to safety concerns.

According to the Civil Aviation Safety Authority, incidents involving lithium batteries have surged by 92 per cent in Australia. Following similar concerns, Emirates has banned power banks on its flights, while Virgin Australia now requires such devices to remain within arm’s reach after a previous in-flight fire.

This alarming incident highlights the growing risks associated with lithium battery devices onboard aircraft and the urgent need for stricter safety regulations. Authorities and airlines are urging passengers to handle such devices with care and comply with airline-specific safety rules to prevent further accidents.