easyJet Flight Evacuated After Vape Explodes in Carry-On Bag

An easyJet flight to London was abruptly evacuated during boarding on September 17, 2024, after a vape reportedly exploded inside a passenger’s carry-on bag. The incident occurred aboard an Airbus A321, designated flight EZY8216, as it prepared to depart from Heraklion, Crete, to London-Gatwick Airport (LGW).

The evacuation was prompted by a fire originating from a passenger’s cabin bag, as confirmed by an easyJet spokesperson. The flight was scheduled to leave at 13:55 local time when chaos ensued. Eyewitness accounts reported seeing “fire and acrid smoke billowing from the bag,” accompanied by loud popping sounds, which caused panic among the passengers. “Smoke filled the cabin around the bag,” one witness recounted, illustrating the alarming scene.

Witnesses further described the frantic atmosphere, with some passengers screaming “bomb” and rushing to exit the aircraft. In a harrowing moment, the bag was dropped in the aisle, heightening the urgency of the situation.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the explosion was caused by a combination of a power bank and e-cigarettes stored in the passenger’s bag. Emergency services, including fire and police teams, swiftly arrived on the scene to assess the situation and ensure passenger safety.

There were 236 passengers aboard the aircraft, all of whom were evacuated onto the runway using the emergency slides. Fortunately, there were no significant injuries reported, though one passenger did sustain friction burns while using the slide to exit the aircraft.

Following the evacuation, the flight was cleared to depart later the same day, with all passengers safely on board. The incident has raised concerns regarding the safety of carrying vaping devices and power banks on flights, emphasizing the importance of adhering to airline regulations about electronic devices.

easyJet has not released further details regarding potential changes to their safety protocols following this incident. Passengers are reminded to be vigilant about the contents of their carry-on luggage, particularly with regard to devices that can pose fire risks. The quick response of the crew and emergency services likely prevented a more serious situation, highlighting the critical importance of safety measures in aviation.

As the investigation continues, easyJet aims to reinforce safety procedures to prevent future occurrences. Passengers are encouraged to stay informed about airline policies concerning the transport of electronic devices and to report any suspicious activity during their travels.