Utilizing power banks on flights can present a considerable fire hazard, which is the reason they are prohibited in checked baggage and commonly restricted from use in the cabin during flights. Despite these guidelines, incidents still happen when passengers flout the rules.
A significant occurrence involved a KLM flight where a power bank ignited in the cabin over the Atlantic Ocean. The flight, KL735, was traveling from Amsterdam to Curacao on September 17, 2026, when the blaze erupted. The aircraft, a Boeing 777-300ER, had to return to Amsterdam after the crew successfully extinguished the fire, which had damaged the seat and cabin. The flight landed safely back in Amsterdam after roughly 5 hours and 20 minutes airborne.
The passenger accountable for the fire was Camiel Eurlings, the former CEO of KLM, who was allegedly using the power bank while asleep. Despite the gravity of the incident, KLM has announced that they do not intend to impose any fines on Eurlings. This incident underscores the necessity of following airline safety regulations, particularly regarding the use of electronic devices like power banks during flights.