A Boeing 777 passenger aircraft operated by Asiana Airlines, en route from Istanbul Airport to Seoul, the capital of South Korea, changed course and returned to Istanbul due to an issue with a powerbank during the flight.
While flying over Kazakh airspace, a passenger’s portable charging device became lodged between seat gaps, prompting action from the cabin crew. Despite all efforts by the flight attendants, the device could not be removed. Citing potential fire risk, the captain prioritised flight safety and made the decision to turn back.
The aircraft, carrying 170 passengers and a crew of six, landed safely at Istanbul Airport at 11:25 PM. The airline accommodated passengers in nearby hotels.
The incident has reignited discussion around previous warnings issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (SHGM). Following a powerbank explosion in South Korea, the DGCA had formally notified airlines to prohibit the use of such devices during flights.
Aviation authorities continue to warn that lithium-ion batteries have high heating and fire potential, posing serious safety risks on board. Airlines and passengers alike are being urged to remain vigilant regarding portable electronic devices during air travel.
Asiana Airlines officials underlined that passenger safety remains a central priority in the company’s policies and announced that inspections would be intensified to prevent similar incidents in the future.
