Description

On 15 December 2006, a Boeing 737-800, being operated by Continental Airlines on a scheduled passenger flight made an emergency en route diversion to Colorado Springs, Colorado, after the cabin crew reported an in-flight fire. The flight had originated at Houston Texas and was en route to Portland, Oregon. Night Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC) prevailed at the time of the event.

The fire was started after a personal air purifier device, used by a passenger during the flight, exploded. The airplane sustained minor damage. One passenger received a minor burn injury. Six persons were transported to a local hospital. They were treated for smoke inhalation and released.

The Investigation

The device that initiated the fire was sent to National Transportation Safety Board (USA) (NTSB) for analysis.

The device, “According to a sales brochure, it "generates an intense electrostatic ion wind that charges floating particles in the 'breathing zone.' The particles are substantially repelled away from the wearer, creating an almost particle-free 'exclusion zone' for toxic allergens, smoke, dust, viruses, and bacteria. Perfumes and odours can also be minimized by the ion particle-charging-effect."

The Fire and Explosion Specialist's report included the following information:

"The unit originally came with a 3.6V CR123A size non-rechargeable lithium primary battery. A kit containing a charger and a rechargeable lithium-ion battery was also available for this unit."