On the morning of November 15, 2024, Southwest Airlines flight WN3316, Boeing 737-700 (Reg. N429WN), which was preparing to depart from Denver International Airport (DIA) to Houston's William P. Hobby Airport, experienced a significant incident when a cellphone battery caught fire inside the aircraft. The event led to an immediate evacuation of all 108 passengers on board using the emergency slides, as the plane was still at the gate.
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The fire, originating from the battery of a passenger's mobile phone, not only caused damage to the device but also spread to a nearby seat, necessitating quick action from the crew. Southwest Airlines' staff extinguished the fire, but the situation required an evacuation for safety reasons. One passenger, the owner of the cellphone, sustained burns and received medical attention. Additionally, one other passenger was reported to have suffered a minor injury during the evacuation process. The emergency slides were deployed for those seated towards the rear of the aircraft, while passengers in the front utilized the main door to exit the plane. This procedure ensured a swift and orderly evacuation, minimizing potential harm. Southwest Airlines emphasized that the safety of customers and employees is their top priority. Following the incident, the airline's Care Team worked promptly to rebook the affected passengers on another flight to Houston, ensuring that their journey could continue with minimal delay.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched an investigation into the incident, focusing on safety protocols regarding lithium-ion battery fires, which have seen a 42% increase over the past five years according to previous FAA data. This event underscores the ongoing concerns about the transportation of lithium batteries on aircraft, which can lead to thermal runaway and fires if damaged or improperly managed.
Southwest Airlines expressed gratitude towards their flight crew's professionalism during the crisis, highlighting their effective response in managing the evacuation and ensuring passenger safety. This incident, while rare, serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of onboard hazards and the importance of robust safety measures and crew training in aviation.