Horror in the sky, passenger's laptop catches fire during flight, pilot forced to make emergency landing

2026-08-23 10:12:13Kosova&Bota SHKRUAR NGA REDAKSIA VOX
Horror in the sky, passenger's laptop catches fire during flight, pilot
Photo illustration

An alarming incident has been reported on an American Airlines flight, after a passenger's laptop caught fire inside the cabin. The incident occurred on Flight 2398, which was departing from Atlanta to Dallas International Airport, with 133 people on board.

The pilot reported to air traffic control that a fire had broken out in the back of the plane and that flight attendants were trying to put it out. It was initially reported that around four or five passengers may have suffered burns from their laptops, but this information was later unconfirmed.

The plane landed safely in Dallas. According to airport authorities, only one passenger received medical attention and then left without needing hospitalization. The airline praised the quick and professional response of the crew, who isolated the device and brought the situation under control.

The incident highlights the dangers posed by lithium-ion batteries in electronic devices. According to the FAA, these batteries can overheat and cause fires, especially if damaged, overcharged or overheated. One of the main risks is a phenomenon known as “thermal runaway,” where the battery’s temperature rises uncontrollably.

According to FAA data, since the beginning of 2026, there have been at least 56 incidents on flights involving lithium batteries, including cases of smoke, fire or overheating. The latest incident with the American Airlines plane did not cause serious injuries, but it shows once again that an electronic device can quickly become a hazard on an aircraft.


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