Air China Flight CA139 Makes Emergency Landing in Shanghai After Lithium Battery Fire

Emergency Landing in Shanghai

An Air China Airbus A321-200, operating as flight CA139 from Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH) to Seoul Incheon International Airport (ICN), was forced to make an emergency landing at Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) on Saturday, October 18, 2025. The diversion occurred after a lithium battery in a passenger's carry-on luggage ignited in an overhead compartment within the aircraft cabin.

The incident took place approximately 20 minutes into the flight, which had departed Hangzhou at 9:47 AM local time. The aircraft, registered as B-8583, landed safely in Shanghai approximately 40 minutes after its initial departure.

Onboard Fire and Crew Response

According to statements from Air China, a lithium battery 'spontaneously ignited' in a passenger's bag stored in the overhead bin. Visual material circulating online reportedly showed flames emerging from the overhead storage compartment, with the cabin subsequently filling with smoke. Crew members on board promptly implemented standard emergency procedures to contain the situation.

The airline confirmed that the crew handled the situation quickly and effectively, preventing further damage and ensuring the safety of those on board. Crucially, no injuries were reported among the passengers or crew as a result of the fire or the emergency landing.

Aftermath and Passenger Arrangements

Following the safe landing at Shanghai Pudong International Airport, the affected aircraft, an 8.3-year-old narrowbody capable of carrying 185 passengers, remained grounded for approximately six hours. Air China subsequently arranged for an alternative aircraft to transport the affected passengers to their final destination in Seoul.

This incident highlights the ongoing concerns within the aviation industry regarding the safe transport of lithium batteries, which can pose a fire risk due to thermal runaway.