Device Smoke Forces Diversion of American Flight
An American Airlines flight bound for Phoenix was diverted to Washington Dulles International Airport on August 23 after smoke from a passenger’s device triggered an onboard incident. Flight 357, an Airbus A321 carrying 160 passengers and six crew, departed Philadelphia more than an hour late before the diversion.
The airline said the device began emitting smoke mid-flight, prompting crew to intervene and contain the situation before landing. “American Airlines flight 357 landed safely at Washington-Dulles following reports of smoke from a customer’s device. The device was quickly contained by crew members prior to landing,” a spokesperson confirmed. Emergency personnel were on standby as the aircraft landed without further complications.
Passengers reported smelling smoke in the cabin and some began coughing. One traveler, Adriana Novello, told local media she saw what appeared to be a burning object in the aisle. No injuries were reported.
The flight resumed the next day from Dulles and arrived in Phoenix at 10:58 a.m. local time. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched an investigation into the incident.
The case highlights the ongoing risks posed by lithium battery-powered electronics, which are common in laptops, phones, vapes, and power banks. FAA regulations require such devices to be stored in carry-on bags, where crews are trained to handle potential fires. Damaged or recalled batteries are prohibited on flights, while items with compromised cells must be made safe or removed before travel.
This diversion underscores the importance of strict battery safety compliance to protect passengers and crews.
Related News: https://airguide.info/?s=american+airlines, https://airguide.info/category/air-travel-business/travel-health-security/
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, travelnoire.com