A routine flight preparation turned into a tense ordeal for passengers aboard a Southwest Airlines flight at Denver International Airport on Friday when a cell phone battery ignited, setting an airplane seat on fire. The incident unfolded while the Boeing 737-700 was still at the gate, carrying 108 passengers preparing for departure.
Chaos erupted as the fire spread, prompting an immediate evacuation. Passengers seated at the rear of the aircraft were directed to use the emergency slides, while those at the front exited via the jet bridge, according to statements from the Federal Aviation Administration and Southwest Airlines.
While no severe injuries were reported, one individual sustained a minor injury during the evacuation process. The passenger whose cell phone caused the blaze is currently receiving treatment for burn injuries, the airline confirmed. Quick action by the cabin crew successfully extinguished the seat fire, averting further damage or harm.
Southwest Airlines emphasized its commitment to safety in a statement addressing the incident. “Our customer care team is diligently working to rebook passengers on an alternative aircraft to complete their journey to Houston. Nothing is more important to us than the safety and well-being of our customers and employees. The matter remains under investigation,” said an airline spokesperson.
For the affected travelers, the journey to William P. Hobby Airport in Houston resumed later that day, albeit with a significant delay. Flight tracking data revealed the aircraft arrived roughly three hours behind schedule.
Passengers recounted the tense moments as smoke filled the cabin. “I smelled something burning, and within seconds, we were being told to evacuate,” said one traveler who was seated near the rear exit. “The crew was calm but firm, and they got us off the plane quickly. I’m just thankful everyone is okay.”
Incidents like this underscore the potential hazards posed by lithium-ion batteries, which power most modern cell phones. While generally safe, these batteries can overheat or malfunction under certain conditions, leading to potentially dangerous outcomes. Airlines have strict regulations regarding the transport and use of electronic devices to mitigate such risks.
Despite the unnerving experience, passengers praised the professionalism and efficiency of the Southwest crew. “They kept us calm and handled the situation incredibly well,” another passenger shared. “It could have been so much worse.”
As Southwest Airlines continues its investigation into the cause of the phone’s malfunction, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance when it comes to safety measures in air travel. For those on board, it was an unforgettable experience a mix of fear, relief, and gratitude for swift action that ensured everyone reached their destination safely.
