A flight attendant has shared a cautionary tale about the risks of retrieving a dropped phone between airplane seats. Accidentally dropping your phone is common during a flight, whether due to shifting positions, accessing belongings, or using the restroom. While the instinct may be to quickly retrieve the phone, experts warn of potential dangers.
Smartphones that fall between seats can become lodged in the seat’s mechanisms, as noted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). If the seat is moved while the phone is trapped, it may lead to crushing or damage. Apart from inconvenience and potential damage to the phone, there is a risk of lithium batteries overheating, potentially causing a thermal event with increased fire risk.
In such situations, passengers are advised to inform a cabin crew member promptly. Flight attendants are trained to understand the aircraft’s seating layout and can safely retrieve the phone before any safety concerns arise. It is crucial to seek assistance rather than attempting to retrieve the phone independently to avoid potential hazards to oneself or others onboard.
John Cox, CEO of Safety Operating Systems and a former pilot, emphasized that damaged electronics, like dropped phones, are more prone to thermal issues. Promptly notifying cabin crew about the dropped device enables them to prepare for any overheating or smoking incidents, ensuring passenger safety.
The ban on carrying power banks in checked baggage on flights is due to similar safety concerns, as seen in incidents where devices caught fire mid-flight. Several airlines, including Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Emirates, and Cathay Pacific, have implemented restrictions on power banks. Additionally, airlines like EVA Air, UNI Air, and Tigerair have prohibited Bluetooth earbuds, including Apple AirPods, in checked baggage due to fire safety worries.
American Airlines was approached for further comments on the matter.
