EasyJet flight diverts to Rome over power bank in luggage

Key developments are emerging from the global stage. EasyJet flight diverts to Rome over power bank in luggage19 minutes ago Share Save Add as preferred on GoogleEwan SomervilleAFP/Getty ImagesPassengers on the EasyJet flight had to stay overnight until the next dayA UK-bound EasyJet flight was diverted to Rome after a power bank was found to be charging in a passenger's luggage, it has been revealed. Flight EZY2618 from Hurghada in Egypt to London Luton landed in the Italian capital on Tuesday night as a "precaution". The airline said the captain decided to divert "in line with safety regulations" after a passenger informed crew during the flight that the portable charger was in the hold of the aircraft.

Many airlines have toughened rules on power banks, often requiring that they be stored in hand luggage because of the risk of lithium-ion batteries catching fire. The flight touched down safely at Rome Fiumicino and was rescheduled to the Wednesday. Data from FlightRadar24 shows the flight cruising at 36,000ft when almost three hours into its journey, over the Adriatic Sea, it took a sharp left-hand turn and landed 20 minutes later.

The Details

It is understood there was no issue with the power bank, but regulations state power banks are not allowed to be charging in the hold during a flight. A spokesperson for the airline said: "The aircraft landed safely and passengers disembarked routinely and we provided hotel accommodation and meals where available. As some customers remained in the airport, they were provided with refreshments.

"The safety of its passengers and crew is EasyJet's highest priority and EasyJet operates its fleet of aircraft in strict compliance with all manufacturers' guidelines. "We would like to apologise to all passengers for any inconvenience caused by the diversion and subsequent delay. "EasyJet's rules state that power banks are accepted on aircraft in cabin baggage only but are "prohibited from use" and "must not be used to charge other devices".

A maximum of two power banks per customer are allowed, they must not exceed 160 Watt-hour (Wh) for lithium batteries and they must be individually protected such as in their original packing or a plastic bag. Announcements are often made by cabin crew warning against their use. Other airlines have brought in similar rules.

What Experts Say

Ryanair says power banks are not allowed in checked baggage, cannot go in overhead compartments, and must not be used to charge or power other portable electronic devices during taxi, take-off or landing. British Airways says power banks must not exceed 100Wh, they must be stored in the seat pocket or a bag placed under the seat in front, and plug sockets on planes cannot be used to charge power banks themselves. The strict rules reflect the fire hazards of lithium-ion batteries - which most power banks use.

They carry a risk of overheating or catching fire which is easier to deal with in the cabin than in the hold. The International Civil Aviation Organisation, a UN agency, introduced new restrictions for power banks in March.

The development has drawn wide international attention, with diplomatic circles watching closely.