Aviation News — A KLM Royal Dutch Airlines flight from São Paulo to Amsterdam was disrupted mid-flight when a passenger’s power bank caught fire onboard, prompting a swift emergency response from the cabin crew.
The incident occurred on KLM flight KL792, which had departed from São Paulo–Guarulhos International Airport en route to Amsterdam Schiphol. Approximately midway through the flight, smoke was detected in the cabin after a portable power bank spontaneously ignited.
Cabin crew quickly isolated the device and extinguished the fire using onboard safety equipment, preventing the situation from escalating. No injuries were reported among the passengers or crew, though some travelers experienced minor discomfort due to smoke inhalation. The aircraft did not divert and continued safely to Amsterdam, where it landed without further incident.
KLM confirmed the incident in a statement, emphasizing that the crew followed standard safety procedures to handle lithium battery fires. “Our team acted promptly and professionally to ensure the safety of everyone onboard,” the airline said.
Lithium-ion batteries, such as those used in power banks, are known to pose a fire risk when damaged, overheated, or defective. Aviation authorities worldwide continue to advise passengers to carry such devices in hand luggage and to avoid using unregulated or damaged charging equipment.
The Dutch Safety Board has been notified, and KLM is cooperating fully with the investigation.
Photo Rob Vogelaar
