A Virgin Australia flight was forced to make an emergency landing at Melbourne Airport on Sunday after a vape device sparked a small fire in the cabin.
The incident occurred on flight VA328 from Brisbane to Melbourne as the plane was descending. The pilots issued a PAN call, indicating the aircraft may need assistance.
The plane landed safely and taxied to the terminal, with aviation fire and rescue crews following as a precaution. All passengers and crew disembarked without incident.
A Virgin Australia spokesperson said the vape activated in the cabin and was quickly contained by crew. The airline reminded passengers that vapes and e-cigarettes must be carried in carry-on baggage only, with measures to prevent accidental activation.
The Civil Aviation Safety Authority advises that spare batteries for e-cigarettes should be stored in original packaging or protective pouches to avoid short circuits.
