Jan 10th 2026 : A T’way Air Boeing 737-8 MAX experienced a cabin incident during a flight from China to South Korea after a passenger’s portable power bank began emitting smoke. The situation was contained by the cabin crew, and the aircraft continued to its destination without further incident.
The aircraft, registration HL8579, was operating flight TW-634 from Sanya (China) to Cheongju (South Korea) with 32 passengers and six crew members on board. During the en-route phase of the flight, a passenger’s power bank started to emit smoke inside the cabin.
Crew Response
According to the airline, three cabin crew members immediately responded to the incident. The power bank was submerged in water to halt the thermal reaction and then secured inside a containment container. The action successfully prevented the device from igniting or causing further damage to the aircraft.
However, during the response, three cabin crew members and five passengers inhaled smoke. The flight crew assessed the situation and, after confirming the device had been rendered safe and there was no continuing hazard, decided to continue to Cheongju.
After Landing
The Boeing 737 MAX landed normally at Cheongju. Following arrival, the three affected cabin crew members were transported to a hospital for medical evaluation. The five passengers who inhaled smoke returned home after the flight.
Investigation
T’way Air confirmed the incident involved a passenger’s power bank emitting smoke and stated that crew procedures were followed to contain the device.
South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport has opened an investigation into the occurrence. Authorities are examining the circumstances of the incident and will also verify whether the power bank’s capacity and specifications complied with applicable safety regulations governing lithium battery devices carried by passengers.
No damage to the aircraft was reported, and no further injuries were disclosed.
