Passenger burned after laptop computer catches fire aboard American Airlines flight to Dallas

A passenger sustained burn injuries after a laptop ignited on an American Airlines flight traveling from Atlanta to Dallas on Friday. The incident occurred about 30 minutes before the Airbus A321, carrying 133 passengers, was scheduled to land.

The pilot informed air traffic control about the fire, stating, "We're hustling down now. The flight attendants are trying to put it out now." According to reports, the laptop's owner threw the burning device into the aisle, where flight crew members managed to contain it within a thermal bag after approximately five minutes.

Following the incident, the pilot requested an expedited approach to Dallas and asked for medical services to be available upon arrival. He confirmed to ATC that the fire was contained in the rear of the aircraft. Upon landing at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, firefighters boarded the plane.

This event underscores continued warnings from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regarding the risks posed by lithium-ion rechargeable batteries, commonly found in laptops, cell phones, and other electronic devices. The FAA explains that these batteries can enter a state of 'thermal runaway' when damaged, overheated, exposed to certain elements, or if they are defective.

To mitigate these risks, FAA regulations mandate that large lithium-ion batteries must be transported in carry-on luggage, allowing flight crews to address potential fires more effectively. Certain battery sizes and quantities are also banned altogether on flights.

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We're hustling down now. The flight attendants are trying to put it out now.