An easyJet flight carrying 180 passengers was forced to make an emergency landing in Rome after a passenger inadvertently left a phone charging on a power bank inside their luggage. The incident occurred on Tuesday evening, causing significant disruption and anxiety among those on board.
Incident Details
The aircraft, operating as flight EZY2618 from Hurghada in Egypt to London Luton, diverted to Rome Fiumicino Airport at approximately 11:30 PM. Passengers were startled when the captain announced over the intercom: 'There’s something we shouldn’t have in the hold.' The revelation that a power bank was charging in the luggage prompted the diversion as a precautionary measure.
Passenger Account
Paul Casterton, a 57-year-old construction worker from Nottingham, was traveling with his partner Laura Bartlett, 61. He described the tense atmosphere on board: 'No one knew what to think. Suddenly the plane changed direction and made a descent. It was hard not to fear the worst. It was stressful until we landed. There was almost a sense of relief when the woman confessed. 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.'
Casterton, who needed to return home for an appointment, paid £350 for an earlier Wizzair flight on Wednesday to expedite his journey.
Airline Response
EasyJet confirmed the diversion in a statement: 'Flight EZY2618 from Hurghada to Luton on May 19 diverted to Rome Fiumicino as the crew were informed a power bank was charging in luggage. The captain then diverted as a precaution in line with safety regulations. Safety is our highest priority. We would like to apologise to all passengers for any inconvenience.'
The airline arranged for affected passengers to stay in hotels or overnight in the terminal, with the next available flight from Rome to Luton departing at 2 PM on Wednesday.
Safety Context
Power banks, which contain lithium-ion batteries, are known fire hazards when damaged or improperly stored. Aviation regulations strictly prohibit charging such devices in checked luggage due to the risk of thermal runaway, which can lead to fires. This incident underscores the importance of adhering to safety guidelines to prevent in-flight emergencies.
