Alaska Airlines Emergency Landing After Battery Fire

A cellphone battery pack fire forced an Alaska Airlines flight to make an emergency landing shortly after departing Wichita, Kansas, on Sunday Feb. 22.

Alaska Airlines Flight 2117, bound for Seattle, took off from Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport with 76 passengers on board. About 15 minutes into the flight, a lithium-ion external battery pack reportedly ignited inside the cabin, prompting immediate action from crew members.

Passengers described a sudden burst of flames rising approximately one foot high from the device, which was reportedly resting in a traveler’s lap. Witnesses said the fire burned the woman’s arms and legs before she threw the device into the aisle. Fellow passengers and flight attendants quickly responded, using a towel and a fire extinguisher to contain the blaze.

The aircraft returned to Wichita less than 30 minutes after takeoff. According to airport officials, three individuals were evaluated after landing and one person was transported to a local hospital. Alaska Airlines confirmed that the passenger who owned the power bank received medical attention.

Several travelers reported difficulty breathing due to thick smoke in the cabin. Some experienced headaches and nausea after inhaling fumes. Aviation safety experts warn that lithium-ion battery fires can produce highly toxic smoke and are often linked to “thermal runaway,” a chain reaction that can cause rapid overheating and ignition.

Although portable battery packs are permitted in carry-on luggage, airlines emphasize that they must not be damaged, improperly stored or exposed to extreme heat. Crew training for battery-related incidents has become increasingly important as such devices are commonly carried onboard.

Alaska Airlines said it is working to rebook affected passengers and assist those impacted by the disruption. The incident underscores growing safety concerns surrounding lithium-ion batteries in aviation and the importance of rapid crew response in preventing more serious outcomes.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, alaskasnewssource.com