A power bank suddenly caught fire and exploded at the security checkpoint of Roxas Airport, Roxas City, Capiz on Tuesday, June 24, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP).
The incident involved a 72,000 mAh power bank found inside a female passenger’s luggage bound for Manila. The device exceeded the allowable 160 watt-hour limit set for carry-on battery-powered devices.
The passenger reportedly claimed that the power bank had been allowed in her luggage during her earlier flight from Manila. However, she eventually agreed to turn it over to a companion outside the terminal.
But while in the process of handing it over, the power bank suddenly ignited and exploded on the inspection table.
Airport personnel quickly extinguished the fire using a fire extinguisher. No injuries or property damage were reported.
Following the incident, CAAP reiterated its call for all passengers to strictly follow aviation safety regulations, especially those concerning battery-powered devices.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the explosion and reviewing safety enforcement protocols at airport checkpoints.
