A powerbank explosion torched a passenger and forced 150 people to flee Melbourne Airport’s Qantas business lounge Thursday when the device ignited in the man’s pocket.
The portable charger ignited around 11 a.m., setting the man’s jacket on fire as travelers heard screams erupt across the lounge. Battery acid sprayed across the area as the device exploded, witnesses said, according to local Australian outlet The Sydney Morning Herald.
Staff rushed the burning passenger into a shower while evacuating the entire lounge. The man, in his 50s, suffered burns to his leg and fingers.
“His jacket caught on fire. They evacuated us because the smoke and smell was so strong, but I really just hope the guy is okay,” one traveler posted on social media alongside a photo of the destroyed device.
Film producer Leanne Tonkes witnessed the incident and commended the rapid response. “Quick thinking from the man who jumped in to help and the staff who got him in the shower and everyone else out of the lounge,” Tonkes wrote on Instagram. (RELATED: Nancy Mace Allegedly Berates Police Officers At Charleston Airport, Calling Them ‘F*cking Incompetent’)
Paramedics transported the victim to The Alfred hospital in stable condition after treating him at the scene, The Sydney Morning Herald reported.
The incident triggered a policy review at Qantas regarding lithium battery restrictions. Virgin Australia announced similar measures after a powerbank fire erupted in an overhead compartment during a Sydney-to-Hobart flight in July, according to the outlet.
Airlines worldwide reportedly face mounting pressure to address battery-related fires. Emirates banned powerbank use on its 266-plane fleet last month, limiting passengers to one device each. South Korea implemented nationwide restrictions in March following a January incident that injured 27 people on an Air Busan flight.
The International Air Transport Association warns that half of all passengers incorrectly believe carrying lithium devices in checked luggage poses no risk, according to the outlet.
The Daily Caller reached out to Melbourne Airport for comment but has not heard back as of publication.
