Overhead bin fire at 30,000 feet

HONG KONG AIRLINES AIRBUS A330-343 B-LNQ (MSN 1668)

A Hong Kong Airlines Airbus A320-200, traveling from Hangzhou (HGH/ZSHC) to Hong Kong (HKG/VHHH) had a fire erupt in an overhead bin while cruising at 30,000 feet.

While the cabin crew acted quickly to fight the fire, the flight crew initiated a diversion to Fuzhou FOC/ZSFZ). Cabin crew succeeded in extinguishing the fire. None of the 168 passengers and crew on board were reported injured.

Many airlines are now implementing new rules. The risks associated with portable power banks have come into greater focus after an Air Busan plane caught fire in January, with a hand-held battery re charger the suspected cause of the blaze.

South Korean authorities responded by ordering travelers to seal up ports on chargers or place them in separate plastic bags. Earlier this month, a Batik Air flight filled with smoke from a burning power bank.

Aircraft Information

Airline: Hong Kong Airlines 

Code: HX/CRK

Aircraft: Airbus A320-232

Registration: B-LPC

Serial Number: 5147

Engines:  2 x CFMI CFM56-5B4/P

First Flew: 07/05/2012

Age: 12.10 Years