An EasyJet plane carrying 180 passengers was diverted to Rome after a power bank was discovered to be in use in the aircraft's hold. Flight EZY2618 departed from Hurghada, Egypt, bound for London Luton Airport on Tuesday, May 19. However, the journey took an unexpected turn when a traveler notified cabin crew that they had a portable charger actively charging a device in the hold.
Captain's Precautionary Decision
The captain decided to divert the flight three hours into the trip, landing safely at Rome Fiumicino 20 minutes later. Passengers were provided with overnight accommodation and were rebooked on a flight to Luton the following day at 2pm.
Paul Casterton, 57, who was traveling with his partner Laura Bartlett, 61, described the experience as 'stressful' until the plane landed and the reason became clear. 'Thank goodness it wasn't a bomb in the hold. Word spread as to the true reason we had been diverted. It was quite an ordeal, but mostly relief that everyone was OK,' he told The Sun.
Airlines Tighten Power Bank Rules
Many airlines have tightened regulations regarding power banks on planes due to the risk of overheating or short-circuiting, which poses a fire and safety hazard. Some require these devices to be stored in hand luggage rather than the hold. EasyJet's website states that power banks are accepted with a watt-hour rating not exceeding 160Wh, must be carried in cabin baggage only, and are prohibited from use on the aircraft. Passengers are limited to two power banks each, and they must be individually protected, such as in original packaging or a plastic bag.
Earlier this year, Lufthansa became the first European airline to ban the use of power banks on flights, though they can still be carried in hand luggage under the seat or on the person. British Airways and Ryanair have similar restrictions, prohibiting the use of power banks during flight and requiring them to be stored under the seat or in seat pockets.
An EasyJet spokesperson said: 'The Captain took the decision to divert as a precaution in line with safety regulations. The aircraft landed safely and passengers disembarked routinely. We provided hotel accommodation and meals where available. The safety of its customers and crew is easyJet's highest priority.'
