Air Niugini urges caution, after fire incident at the international airport

Air Niugini has issued an urgent safety warning to passengers regarding the handling, charging, and transport of lithium battery-powered devices, following a fire incident at the Jacksons International Airport in Port Moresby.

The national flag carrier’s Chief Executive Officer, Alan Milne, issued the directive, after a charging power bank, caused a minor electrical fire and smoke incident, at the Domestic Kumul Club Lounge on Saturday, October 24.

While lounge members and staff quickly contained the fire without any reported injuries, the airline is using the incident to remind travelers of the severe risks associated with lithium batteries.

In an official statement, Mr. Milne highlighted that everyday items like mobile phones, laptops, tablets, and power banks are classified as "hidden dangerous goods" that can pose catastrophic risks to passengers, property, and aircraft safety.

The airline warned that these devices become high-risk fire hazards if the batteries are, damaged or faulty, exposed to excessive heat, swollen, and charged using uncertified or incompatible equipment.

To prevent future incidents, Air Niugini is urging all customers to strictly; use only manufacturer-approved chargers and cables, immediately stop using and traveling with batteries that appear swollen or damage, never leave devices unattended while they are charging, and always answer all dangerous goods safety questions truthfully, during check in.

"Lithium battery-powered devices have become an essential part of daily life, but they must be used and handled responsibly," Milne said.

He reiterated that safety remains Air Niugini's highest priority, both on the ground and in the air, and the airline will continue to run dangerous goods awareness and training programs for its staff and external cargo partners, to strengthen safety measures across its network.