A flight attendant has shared a concerning revelation about why it’s risky to retrieve a dropped phone between the seats while on a flight.
Accidentally dropping your phone during a flight is common, whether from adjusting your position, going to the restroom, or searching in your bag under the front seat. Despite the instinct to pick it up immediately, experts caution that doing so could pose a danger.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), if a smartphone falls between the seats of an airplane, it may get stuck in the seat’s mechanical parts. If the seat is reclined or adjusted with the device trapped, it could lead to the phone being crushed or damaged.
While passengers may be inconvenienced by a damaged phone, the real concern is the potential overheating of the lithium batteries inside. This overheating could cause rapid battery heating, release flammable gases, and increase the risk of a fire.
In such a situation, it is crucial to inform a flight attendant promptly if your phone slips between the seats. Flight attendants are familiar with the aircraft’s seating layout and can safely retrieve the phone before it becomes a safety hazard.
Flight attendants receive training on the operational details of each seat, enabling them to assist customers in retrieving items dropped between seats. This proactive approach helps prevent thermal incidents, as damaged electronics are more prone to thermal issues, as stated by John Cox, CEO of aviation consulting firm Safety Operating Systems.
It is essential for cabin crew to be aware of any dropped devices to prepare for potential overheating or smoking incidents. Trying to retrieve the phone independently is not worth the risk, as it could lead to injuries or safety hazards for passengers.
The prohibition of power banks in checked baggage on flights is due to similar fire concerns related to electronic devices. Several airlines, such as Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Emirates, and Cathay Pacific, have implemented bans on power banks for this reason.
Moreover, some airlines have extended restrictions to Bluetooth earbuds like Apple AirPods in checked baggage, citing fire safety concerns. EVA Air, UNI Air, and Tigerair are among the carriers that no longer allow Bluetooth earbuds in checked luggage.
American Airlines was approached for further comments regarding this issue.
