Cellphone Fire on British Airways Flight to Las Vegas Prompts FAA Investigation

M. local time on Monday after a crew member reported a cellphone fire aboard the aircraft. A pilot on air traffic control audio said the fire had scorched the inside of the cabin but that the sparks were under control.

Passengers disembarked normally after the landing, a British Airways spokesperson said. The Federal Aviation Administration said it will investigate the incident. The FAA reported at least 50 smoke, fire, or extreme heat incidents involving portable electronic devices last year.

Only lithium-ion batteries with a capacity of less than 160 watt hours are allowed aboard passenger planes. The FAA stressed that cell phones, laptops, mobility aids, and other rechargeable electronic devices must be stored in carry-on bags rather than checked luggage in case of a fire. “The safety of our customers and crew is the highest priority,” the British Airways spokesperson said.