A routine easyJet flight from Milan to Prague turned into a terrifying emergency on September 10 when a power bank reportedly caught fire inside an overhead locker.

As the Airbus A320 was taxiing toward the runway at Milan Malpensa Airport, cabin crew spotted smoke coming from the locker. The captain immediately stopped the aircraft and declared a MAYDAY.

With smoke spreading through the cabin, all 146 passengers were ordered to evacuate using the emergency slides. Firefighters reached the aircraft within minutes, while ambulances were also dispatched.

Two passengers suffered bruises during the evacuation, but thankfully no serious injuries were reported.

The incident temporarily brought operations at Malpensa to a standstill, with takeoffs and landings suspended while emergency crews dealt with the situation. Nearby taxiing aircraft were also evacuated as a precaution.

Initial findings indicate that an overheating lithium-ion power bank triggered the fire.

Italy’s air accident investigation agency ANSV has launched an inquiry into the incident.

The event is another reminder of why airlines insist that power banks and spare lithium batteries should be carried where they can be monitored—not buried in baggage compartments.

A tiny battery can become a major aviation emergency in seconds.