SEOUL, January 29 (AJP) - A fire likely caused by an external battery or electronic device broke out in the baggage compartment of an Air Busan aircraft at Gimhae International Airport, leaving seven people with minor injuries, authorities said Wednesday.
The blaze erupted Tuesday night at the tail of the plane as it was preparing for departure to Hong Kong, prompting an emergency evacuation of all 176 passengers and crew members.
Passengers aboard the aircraft reported seeing flames emerge from a baggage compartment, accompanied by crackling sounds and smoke. Investigators are working to confirm whether a lithium-ion battery or another electronic device stored in checked luggage was the source of the fire.
Acting President Choi Sang-mok called for a thorough investigation into the fire and urged officials to implement immediate response measures. “Given the high volume of flights at Gimhae Airport, I encourage proactive efforts to ensure the safe operation of aircraft and prevent disruptions for travelers,” he said in a statement.
Busan fire officials confirmed that seven individuals were receiving treatment at hospitals for injuries sustained in the incident. Initially, authorities reported three casualties but later revised the count following further evaluations.
Among the injured, four were crew members who experienced chest discomfort due to smoke inhalation. The other three, a woman in her 70s and two individuals in their 50s, reported pain in their tailbones and backs.
Despite the fire, operations at Gimhae International Airport remained largely unaffected as of Wednesday, with 279 scheduled flights running as planned. However, eight Air Busan flights were canceled.
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