KLM flight to Curaçao diverts after ex-CEO Eurlings' power bank catches fire
A KLM flight from Amsterdam to Curaçao turned back to the Netherlands after a portable charger caught fire in business class nearly six hours into the flight over the Atlantic. The device, belonging to former KLM CEO Camiel Eurlings, scorched his seat and window blind. Passengers were rebooked and completed the journey to Curaçao the following day.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The episode illustrates how lithium-ion power banks, despite their small size, can force costly diversions on long-haul flights when they overheat far from any airport. It also suggests airlines may face continued pressure to tighten rules on carrying and using such devices in the cabin. That the device belonged to a former KLM chief executive added public attention to an otherwise routine safety incident, according to passenger accounts reported by RTL.
- A power bank fire forced a KLM flight to return to Amsterdam nearly six hours into a Curaçao-bound journey.
- The device belonged to Camiel Eurlings, a former KLM CEO, and left burn marks on his seat and window blind.
- Passengers were delayed overnight and rebooked, completing their trip the next day without further incident.
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Published there as: “A KLM flight turned around after a power bank caught fire, and it belonged to the airline's ex-CEO”
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