A international flight was diverted to Rome this week after a passenger informed the crew that he had a charging power bank in his checked baggage, according to multiple reports.
The London-based easyJet plane was flying from Hurghada, Egypt, to London Luton Airport on Tuesday evening when the incident occurred.
“Nobody knew what to think,” said passenger Paul Casterton. The Sun. “Suddenly, the plane changed direction and went downhill. It was hard not to fear the worst.”
He added that passengers were relieved when they discovered it was a problem with an external battery.
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An international easyJet flight was diverted to Rome this week after a passenger’s power bank was left charging in his checked baggage. (Matthias Balk/photo alliance via Getty Images, file / Getty Images)
“Thank God that wasn’t the case a bomb in the hold” he said. “Word spread about the real reason we had been hijacked. It was quite an ordeal, but above all a relief to know that everyone was okay.”
An easyJet spokesperson told People magazine and The Sun: “Flight EZY2618 from Hurghada to Luton on May 19 was diverted to Rome Fiumicino because the crew were informed that an external battery was being charged in the luggage.
“The captain then made the decision to divert as a precautionary measure in accordance with the safety rules“, the press release continues.
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The spokesperson added: “The aircraft landed safely and passengers disembarked regularly. We provided hotel accommodation and meals where possible. As some customers remained at the airport, refreshments were provided to them.”
A cell phone, left, is charged with a portable charger. (Getty Images, File/Getty Images)
EasyJet did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment outside of business hours.
Portable chargers and lithium-ion batteries are prohibited in checked baggage on all U.S. and international flights due to the risk of fire.
They are allowed to enter hand luggage.
Portable chargers and lithium-ion batteries are prohibited in checked baggage. (Robert Alexander/Getty Images, File/Getty Images)
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The airline added that “the safety of its passengers and crew is easyJet’s top priority, and as easyJet operates its fleet of aircraft.” in strict compliance with the all manufacturers’ instructions.
EasyJet also apologized to passengers “for any inconvenience caused by the diversion and resulting delay”.