Batik Air flight from Johor Bahru to Bangkok filled with thick smoke 30 minutes before landing.

A Batik Air flight en route from Johor Bahru, Malaysia, to Bangkok, Thailand, was engulfed in thick smoke just 30 minutes before landing on February 24, 2025. The incident was caused by a power bank catching fire inside the overhead luggage compartment, leading to panic among passengers as flight attendants scrambled to contain the situation.

This latest in-flight safety incident has reignited concerns over the risks of lithium-ion batteries in power banks. Several airlines have implemented new regulations restricting passengers from storing power banks in checked or overhead compartments after multiple cases of fires onboard commercial flights.

Thick Smoke Engulfs Cabin Mid-Air

The incident unfolded around 30 minutes before landing, when a passenger, TikTok user @kentmaherr, noticed what initially appeared to be steam coming out of the overhead luggage compartment. Within seconds, it thickened into dense smoke, spreading rapidly throughout the cabin with a strong, chemical-like stench.

Realizing the growing threat, passengers alerted flight attendants, who were already buckled in for landing procedures. As the smoke continued to spread, flight crew members were seen feeling the compartments in an effort to locate the heat source.

Flight Crew Quickly Takes Action

Once the burning power bank was identified, flight attendants acted swiftly, using a fire extinguisher to put out the fire. Eyewitnesses reported that passengers remained calm despite the terrifying situation.

One video posted online shows the aftermath of the incident, with a passenger escorted to the rear of the plane. The individual was then seen removing a burnt power bank from their bag, which was later placed into a safety container to prevent further risk. Reports suggest that flight attendants initially used bottled water in an attempt to control the fire before deploying the fire extinguisher.

As a precaution, fire brigades and ambulances were on standby at Bangkok’s airport when the plane touched down. Thankfully, no injuries were reported, and the situation was fully under control before landing. The airline has not yet released an official statement on the incident, but it is likely that further investigations will follow.

Growing Concern Over Power Bank Fires on Flights

This is not the first time a power bank fire has endangered passengers mid-flight. On January 28, 2025, an Air Busan flight was forced to make an emergency landing after a power bank ignited in a passenger’s bag. Following that incident, Air Busan banned passengers from storing power banks in overhead compartments, and other airlines are expected to follow suit.

Experts have long warned about the dangers of lithium-ion batteries, particularly when stored in tight spaces without ventilation. Aviation authorities worldwide are reviewing safety measures to prevent similar in-flight emergencies.

The Batik Air fire incident highlights the hidden dangers of carrying power banks onboard flights. As airlines tighten restrictions on battery-powered devices, passengers are urged to follow safety guidelines, ensuring power banks are stored safely in carry-on luggage and never left unattended in overhead compartments.

Sources: The Independent (2025), Mothership (2025)

Keywords: Batik Air Emergency, Power Bank Fire on Plane, Bangkok Flight Smoke, In-Flight Fire Incident, Aviation Safety