File photo for reference only

 

A smoke incident occurred at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 on May 12, attributed to a passenger’s powerbank. The situation was swiftly handled with no injuries or damage reported, according to the New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC).

 

Smoke was observed emanating from Baggage Carousel 3, prompting an immediate response from airport emergency teams. As a precautionary measure, passengers in the vicinity were safely guided away, and the area was secured while ventilation measures dispersed the smoke.

 

By 5:18 p.m., responders identified the source of the smoke as a powerbank that likely fell from a passenger’s luggage into the carousel system. Although the device caused a minor spark, resulting in smoke, there was no open flame, and subsequent tests confirmed the carousel remained fully operational.

 

The area was quickly cleaned up, and terminal operations continued without any disruption. NNIC expressed gratitude to the responding teams and partner agencies, emphasizing that passenger safety and well-being remain paramount.

 

The incident underscores the importance of adhering to safety guidelines regarding electronic devices in luggage, highlighting the effective emergency protocols in place at NAIA to ensure passenger safety.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2025-05-13

 

 

I thought power banks in checked luggage are banned?  If I understand the OP properly someone should be in big trouble!