Power Bank in Passenger Luggage Explodes at Roxas Airport

 
Power Bank in Passenger Luggage Explodes at Roxas Airport

By Bing Jabadan – Thenationweek.com  

June 25, 2025

ROXAS CITY, Philippines – A power bank in a passenger’s luggage ignited and exploded on Tuesday (June 24, 2025) at Roxas Airport.

The incident occurred about 6:36 a.m. during a final security checkpoint.

No injuries were reported, while damage to equipment was minimal.

Eric Apolonio, spokesperson for the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), said airport personnel found the power bank, which exceeded the permissible limit of 160 watt-hours for air travel, in the luggage of a female passenger bound for Manila.

The lithium-ion powered device exploded during a routine X-ray screening.

An initial report said the passenger, who was not immediately identified, insisted that the power bank had been allowed on her previous flight from Manila.

She, however, later consented to surrender the lithium-ion powered device to an acquaintance waiting outside the terminal.

While arrangements were underway to transfer the power bank, it sparked and ignited on the inspection table after passing an X-ray screening, Apolonio reported.

An airport security officer promptly used a fire extinguisher to put out the flames. The device was subsequently detonated.

CAAP commended both the airport security and the Office for Transportation Security screening personnel for their prompt actions.

“Their rapid response was instrumental in managing the situation and averting potential harm,” Apolonio said.

Authorities reminded passengers to strictly comply with aviation regulations to maintain safety and security at the airport at all times.