Passenger set on fire in airport lounge due to freak accident involving power bank
Airport chaos after passenger catches fire in Qantas business lounge
![The Qantas business lounge was evacuated [stock image]](https://static.independent.co.uk/2025/09/01/9/44/iStock-2160409388.jpeg)
- A Qantas business lounge at Melbourne Airport was evacuated after a passenger's power bank ignited in his trouser pocket.
- The 50-year-old man sustained significant burn injuries to his leg and fingers and was subsequently taken to hospital.
- Around 150 passengers were promptly evacuated from the lounge by staff following the incident, which occurred around 11 am on Thursday.
- Qantas confirmed the event, stating the lounge was evacuated as a precaution, and is now reviewing its policies on lithium battery devices.
- This incident underscores increasing aviation safety concerns regarding lithium battery devices, prompting airlines worldwide to tighten rules on their carriage and use.