A Virgin Australia flight heading to Melbourne made an urgent landing after a vape device activated inside the aircraft cabin.
The incident occurred on **Virgin Australia flight VA328, travelling from Brisbane to Melbourne on Sunday afternoon.
According to the airline, the device activated while the aircraft was descending toward Melbourne, creating a small fire in the cabin.
Aircraft declared urgent assistance signal
Following the incident, the flight crew declared a PAN — an aviation radio signal used when an aircraft requires urgent assistance but is not in immediate danger.
This allowed airport emergency services to prepare for the aircraft’s arrival.
The plane continued its descent and landed safely at Melbourne Airport.
Passengers and crew safe
Virgin Australia confirmed that all passengers and crew disembarked normally once the aircraft reached the gate.
Emergency crews were waiting for the aircraft when it landed.
Firefighters boarded the plane and safely removed the vape device responsible for the incident.
Airline thanks crew for quick response
A spokesperson for Virgin Australia said the airline’s top priority is always passenger safety.
“The safety of our guests and crew is our highest priority,” the spokesperson said.
The airline also praised the crew for their quick response in containing the device and preventing the situation from escalating.
Lithium battery risks on aircraft
Incidents involving vape devices can be dangerous on aircraft because they contain lithium batteries, which can overheat or ignite if damaged or activated accidentally.
Airlines typically require passengers to keep vape devices in carry-on luggage only and prohibit their use during flights.
The incident highlights why strict safety rules exist for battery-powered devices onboard aircraft.