A Virgin Australia flight from Brisbane to Melbourne was met by emergency services after a vape device activated and produced smoke in the cabin, leading to a Pan emergency declaration by the pilots. The incident occurred on Flight VA 328, which landed safely at Melbourne airport around 4 p.m. on Sunday, with all passengers disembarking normally.
Emergency Response and Crew Action
According to Melbourne airport officials, a passenger alerted the crew when vapour and smoke were observed emanating from the vape. The crew promptly contained the device to prevent further risk. The pilots issued a Pan call, indicating a situation less urgent than a mayday but requiring expedited handling and priority arrival.
Firefighters escorted the Boeing 737 to the gate as a precautionary measure and removed the vape from the aircraft. A Virgin Australia spokesperson emphasized that safety is the airline's highest priority, commending the crew for their swift response in managing the incident.
Risks of Vape Batteries and Safety Protocols
Vapes contain lithium batteries that can enter thermal runaway, sparking fires if damaged or overheated. Virgin Australia classifies vapes and e-cigarettes as portable electronic devices, mandating they be carried only in hand luggage. This policy aligns with broader aviation safety measures, especially after a previous incident in July involving a power bank ignition on a Virgin Australia flight, which led to revised stowage rules requiring such items to be placed in seat pockets or under seats.
Dr. Adam Best, an expert in advanced lithium battery technologies at the CSIRO, highlighted that vape batteries are often more prone to failure than those in power banks. He noted that many disposable vapes lack safety features and are produced in less regulated factories, increasing the risk of faults that can cause high temperatures, fires, toxic gas release, or even explosions.
Virgin Australia ensures all its aircraft are equipped with fire suppression gear to address lithium battery incidents, underscoring ongoing efforts to mitigate risks associated with electronic devices on flights.
