EasyJet flight diverts to Rome after power bank incident sparks safety concerns
An EasyJet flight headed to the United Kingdom was forced to divert to Rome after a passenger’s power bank was discovered charging inside luggage in the aircraft’s hold, the airline has confirmed.
The incident occurred on flight EZY2618, which was travelling from Hurghada to London Luton, when it made an unscheduled landing in the Italian capital on Tuesday night as a precautionary measure.
According to EasyJet, the pilot opted to divert the aircraft “in line with safety regulations” after cabin crew were alerted mid-flight that a portable charger was being charged in checked baggage. Airlines have increasingly tightened restrictions on power banks due to the fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries.
The aircraft landed safely at Rome Fiumicino Airport and passengers were later rebooked onto a flight the following day.
Flight tracking data from FlightRadar24 showed the plane cruising at 36,000 feet when, roughly three hours into the journey over the Adriatic Sea, it made a sudden turn and arrived in Rome about 20 minutes later.
Although there were no reports of a malfunction, regulations prohibit power banks from being used or charged in aircraft cargo holds during flights.
EasyJet stated that all passengers disembarked safely and were provided with hotel accommodation and meals where possible, while those still at the airport received refreshments.
The airline apologised for the disruption, stressing that passenger and crew safety remains its top priority and that its operations comply strictly with manufacturer guidelines.
Under EasyJet rules, power banks are only permitted in cabin baggage and must not be used or charged during the flight. Passengers are also limited to two devices, each not exceeding 160Wh, and must ensure they are properly protected.
Similar restrictions apply across other airlines. Ryanair prohibits power banks in checked luggage and restricts their use during all phases of flight, while British Airways requires them to be kept in the seat pocket or under the seat and limits capacity to 100Wh.
Aviation authorities say these rules reflect the fire risks posed by lithium-ion batteries, which can overheat or ignite and are safer to manage in the cabin than in the aircraft hold.
The International Civil Aviation Organization introduced updated restrictions on power banks in March.
Recent incidents have highlighted the danger, including a case at Melbourne Airport in November 2025 where a passenger suffered burns after a power bank ignited, and a January 2025 fire in South Korea that destroyed a passenger aircraft and injured several people.
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