Virgin Australia Reviews Power-Bank Policy Following Mid-Air Fire Incident
Portable charger believed to have sparked fire on Sydney–Hobart flight prompts airline to tighten lithium-battery safety rules
A power bank is believed to have caused a fire aboard Virgin Australia flight VA1528 from Sydney to Hobart on 21 July 2025, prompting the airline to review its policy on portable lithium-ion chargers.
The incident occurred in an overhead locker during descent and was promptly extinguished by the crew before a safe landing.
The airline confirmed the blaze was likely ignited by a power bank in a passenger’s carry-on bag and noted that an investigation is ongoing with the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) and the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA).
While the current rules require such batteries to be kept in cabin baggage and not checked in, Virgin Australia has advised passengers to keep power banks in sight and easily accessible throughout the flight.
Charging devices from them mid-air is discouraged.
The episode reflects a wider concern across the aviation sector over lithium-battery safety.
CASA data show a sharp rise in battery-related incidents, and several international carriers have already banned in-flight power-bank use.
Industry voices say the incident underscores the need for stricter rules and clearer guidance.
Passengers carrying power banks are urged to ensure the devices meet manufacturer labelling and are safeguarded against short-circuiting; until the review is complete, Airlines advise passengers to keep the devices where they can be monitored.
The outcome of Virgin Australia’s review may lead to further restrictions or an outright ban on certain battery types on board.
The incident occurred in an overhead locker during descent and was promptly extinguished by the crew before a safe landing.
The airline confirmed the blaze was likely ignited by a power bank in a passenger’s carry-on bag and noted that an investigation is ongoing with the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) and the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA).
While the current rules require such batteries to be kept in cabin baggage and not checked in, Virgin Australia has advised passengers to keep power banks in sight and easily accessible throughout the flight.
Charging devices from them mid-air is discouraged.
The episode reflects a wider concern across the aviation sector over lithium-battery safety.
CASA data show a sharp rise in battery-related incidents, and several international carriers have already banned in-flight power-bank use.
Industry voices say the incident underscores the need for stricter rules and clearer guidance.
Passengers carrying power banks are urged to ensure the devices meet manufacturer labelling and are safeguarded against short-circuiting; until the review is complete, Airlines advise passengers to keep the devices where they can be monitored.
The outcome of Virgin Australia’s review may lead to further restrictions or an outright ban on certain battery types on board.
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