Travelers at Melbourne Airport witnessed a frightening scene after a passenger’s power bank caught fire, causing burns to the man’s leg and fingers early Friday morning.

According to Australian emergency services, the incident happened in a Qantas airport lounge when the portable charger overheated and burst into flames. The man, described as being in his 50s, was quickly helped by staff, who escorted him to a shower to extinguish the flames before paramedics arrived.

Airport officials confirmed that the man received immediate first aid and was later taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. His injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

Firefighters said the lithium-ion battery in the power bank likely went into thermal runaway, a process where internal heat rapidly builds up and triggers combustion. The device’s brand has not been disclosed, but investigators are examining whether a manufacturing defect or improper use caused the malfunction.

The airport lounge was temporarily evacuated as a safety precaution, and the fire was quickly contained before it could spread. Flights were not affected.

Lithium Batteries and Air Travel Safety

Incidents involving power banks, e-cigarettes, and other lithium-powered devices have become an increasing concern for aviation regulators. Airlines around the world require passengers to carry power banks in cabin luggage rather than check them in, as overheating or short-circuiting can ignite fires in cargo holds.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) reiterated that travelers should avoid using damaged or unbranded chargers and store power banks properly when not in use.

While rare, such incidents underscore the risks associated with cheap or poorly certified lithium-ion batteries-particularly those without international safety marks such as CE, UL, or IEC certification.

The Growing Pattern

This is the second reported case of a battery fire in an Australian airport this year. In February, a similar event at Sydney Airport prompted renewed calls for clearer public awareness campaigns on portable device safety.

Experts warn that as travel resumes globally and passengers rely on multiple gadgets, proper handling and certification of charging accessories are becoming essential aspects of air safety.