A scary situation unfolded aboard an American Airlines flight on Friday when a laptop reportedly caught fire during landing, leaving multiple passengers with burn injuries.
American Airlines Flight 2398 was traveling from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Atlanta to Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport in the Lone Star state when the crew reported smoke coming from a customer’s device.
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The airline confirmed the incident to multiple media outlets, saying:
“American Airlines Flight 2398 landed safely at DFW after reports of smoke from a customer’s device during landing. We thank our crew for their professionalism and swift response to quickly contain the device.”
According to air traffic control audio first obtained by CBS Texas, the pilot said to ground control at the time that approximately four to five (!!!) passengers had been burned by the laptop:
“I think we have about four to five passengers that were burned by the laptop. The laptop is contained about mid-aircraft. Once we taxi clear, I guess the best plan to follow is to the gate or any way you guys can board?”
Per media reports, the aircraft was carrying around 133 people.
One passenger received medical treatment at the airport and was later released, according to American Airlines and DFW officials. They added in a statement to People:
“After landing, the aircraft taxied to the gate under its own power. Per procedure, emergency personnel met the aircraft upon arrival to the gate.”
Sheesh…
FYI, the incident is a sobering reminder of the potential dangers posed by lithium-ion batteries, which are commonly found in laptops, phones and portable chargers. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has said it recorded 58 lithium-battery incidents involving smoke or fire on passenger aircraft in 2026 as of August, per People.
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The FAA had previously warned that these batteries can experience “thermal runaway,” potentially resulting from damage, overheating, overcharging, water exposure, improper packing or manufacturing defects.
Thankfully, this plane landed safely and the reported injuries were treated.
Still, what a frightening experience for everyone on board!
[Image via MEGA/WENN]
