Panic erupted at San Francisco International Airport on Friday as American Airlines flight AA2045, bound for Miami, was forced to evacuate due to smoke filling the cabin. Thankfully, the incident resulted in only minor injuries.
By Aditya M
Smoke from a Laptop Sparks Evacuation
According to reports, the source of the smoke was traced back to a laptop computer in a passenger's bag. Alert crew members quickly identified the issue and initiated the evacuation procedure. Passengers were forced to deploy the emergency slides to exit the Airbus A321 aircraft.
Social media accounts from passengers on board described a chaotic scene with some reporting a "light stampede" as people rushed towards the exits. Thankfully, American Airlines confirmed that all passengers and crew were safely evacuated.
Minor Injuries Reported
Three minor injuries were reported in the incident, with one passenger requiring medical attention at the scene. American Airlines has yet to comment on the extent of the damage to the aircraft.
Investigation Underway
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently investigating the incident to determine the exact cause of the laptop overheating. Lithium-ion batteries are known to pose a potential fire hazard, and it's vital to understand the specific circumstances to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
American Airlines Responds
In a statement, American Airlines praised the professionalism of their crew and apologized for the inconvenience caused to passengers. The airline is working diligently to re-accommodate those affected and get them on their way to Miami as soon as possible.
Safety First
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety protocols in air travel. The swift action of the crew undoubtedly prevented a more serious situation. As investigations continue, passengers can expect increased vigilance regarding electronics allowed onboard, particularly those with lithium-ion batteries.
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