A transatlantic flight bound for Curaçao was forced to make an emergency return to Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport after a passenger’s unauthorized use of a power bank sparked a fire in the business class cabin.
The passenger at the center of the midair security scare has been identified as Camiel Eurlings, the 53-year-old former CEO of the Dutch national carrier, KLM. Eurlings, who led the airline between 2011 and 2014, had reportedly been traveling in a lie-flat seat when he fell asleep while charging the device, directly violating strict safety protocols regarding lithium-ion batteries.
According to reports, the power bank ignited approximately five-and-a-half hours into the flight, mid-way across the Atlantic Ocean. The sudden explosion sent flames through the premium cabin, prompting an immediate response from the onboard crew. Thanks to their quick intervention, the fire was extinguished before it could spread further, though the vessel was forced to turn around and return to the Netherlands.
Graphic images released following the incident reveal the severity of the blaze. The window adjacent to Mr. Eurlings’ seat was left charred, with soot coating the closed window blind. Other photographs depict the remnants of the mobile device and charger, which were reduced to burnt, twisted wreckage.
KLM’s safety regulations are clear regarding portable power sources: while passengers are permitted to carry up to two power banks, they must never be stored in hold luggage or left unattended in overhead lockers. Crucially, they are strictly prohibited from being charged while in flight due to the significant risk of thermal runaway at high altitudes.
A spokesperson for KLM confirmed that at least one passenger sustained burn injuries during the incident. While the airline has declined to officially confirm the identity of the injured individual, sources suggest it was Eurlings himself.
The incident has drawn significant attention not only due to the severity of the fire but also because of the perpetrator’s high-profile background. Beyond his tenure as KLM chief, Eurlings is a well-known figure in Dutch politics, having previously served as the Minister of Transport, a member of the House of Representatives, and a Member of the European Parliament (MEP).
The return to Schiphol caused major disruption to the service, forcing a full emergency landing procedure. Aviation safety experts have cited the event as a stark reminder of why airline restrictions on portable electronics are in place, noting that fire remains one of the most critical threats to aircraft safety while at 35,000 feet.
The incident is currently under review by aviation authorities to determine if further action will be taken against the former executive for the breach of safety regulations.
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