American Airlines flight lands safely after laptop fire

A laptop battery caught fire on an American Airlines flight traveling from Atlanta to Dallas-Fort Worth on Friday evening. The incident occurred on flight AA2398, an Airbus A321, as the aircraft was preparing to land.

The pilot reported a “cabin fire in the back of the airplane” to air traffic control, noting that flight attendants were working to extinguish the flames. While one report indicates at least one passenger received medical attention at the scene and was released, another report suggests up to four passengers may have sustained burns.

The aircraft landed safely at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport and taxied to the gate under its own power. American Airlines praised the crew for their swift response in containing the device.

The incident highlights ongoing safety concerns regarding lithium batteries in aviation. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has recorded numerous incidents involving lithium battery smoke or fire this year. To mitigate risks, the FAA requires these batteries to be carried in cabin baggage rather than checked luggage.