A power bank fire in the overhead locker of a Boeing 737 illustrates the importance of passengers following new airline guidance to keep their lithium battery devices easily accessible.
The final report from an ATSB investigation into the serious 21 July 2025 incident explains the Virgin Australia aircraft was descending towards Hobart when a cabin crew member identified smoke and flames coming from an overhead locker.
"While confirming the cabin was secure for landing, the cabin crew member heard what they described to the ATSB as a popping and hissing sound," Chief Commissioner Angus Mitchell said.
"They then saw white smoke, then flames, emanating from an overhead locker above row 7."
When the locker was opened, a passenger's backpack was found to be on fire.
"Cabin crew doused the flames with a fire extinguisher and, with assistance from some passengers, poured water on the bag until no smoke was emitted."
To reduce the risk of re‑ignition, a second fire extinguisher was discharged into the locker. Cabin crew instructed passengers to keep their heads down and cover their nose and mouth to avoid inhaling smoke.
Meanwhile, on being alerted to the fire by a cabin crew member, the flight crew broadcast a PAN PAN call to air traffic control, who provided clearance for the approach and landing, and alerted aviation rescue and firefighting services.
The aircraft, which had six crew and 149 passengers on board, landed safely in Hobart without further incident.
