Air China Flight Makes Emergency Landing in South Korea Due to Onboard Battery Fire

An emergency landing occurred on an Air China flight due to a lithium battery fire. The incident took place while traveling from Hangzhou to Seoul. The plane diverted to Shanghai Pudong International Airport for safety reasons.
Details of the Incident
The flight, designated CA139, was airborne on October 18. It departed Hangzhou at 9:47 AM, with an expected arrival at Incheon International Airport at 12:20 PM. However, a lithium battery in a passenger’s carry-on luggage caught fire, prompting the emergency landing.
Response and Safety Measures
Air China reported that the crew responded swiftly to the situation. Fortunately, there were no injuries among the passengers or crew members. In their statement, the airline emphasized that maintaining flight safety was their top priority.
Passenger Experience
Passengers on the flight expressed their anxiety during the emergency situation. Some were heard shouting for urgency in Korean as the crew handled the unfolding event.
Flight Information
- Flight Number: CA139
- Departure: Hangzhou
- Destination: Incheon, Seoul
- Departure Time: October 18, 9:47 AM
- Scheduled Landing: 12:20 PM at Incheon International Airport
- Incident: Lithium battery fire in overhead compartment
- Emergency Landing Location: Shanghai Pudong International Airport
The situation underscores the potential dangers associated with lithium batteries on flights. Air China’s prompt response helped avert a more serious crisis.