What happened
On December 19, 2021, at 15:51 UTC, a Boeing 737-800 operated by Aerolíneas Argentinas S.A. was performing a regular commercial flight from Aeroparque Jorge Newbery to Esquel. During the initial climb phase, a fire and smoke were detected within the passenger cabin. The source of the combustion was identified as a 2000 mAh battery bank belonging to a passenger, which was located inside an overhead bin.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the incident occurring at Ezeiza International Airport. Investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the activation of the battery bank and the subsequent response by the crew. The inquiry established that the device was situated in a cabin bin at the time the smoke and fire emerged. Following the detection of the hazard, the crew acted immediately to extinguish the fire.
Findings
- The fire originated from a passenger electronic device (a power bank).
- The incident occurred during the climb phase of the flight.
- There were no injuries reported among the 98 passengers or the 5 crew members on board.
- The aircraft sustained no damage as a result of the event.
- The crew successfully suppressed the fire immediately upon discovery.