KLM diverted a Boeing 777-300ER back to Amsterdam after a power bank caught fire in the cabin on flight KL735 to Curaçao. The aircraft, registered PH-BVP, turned around over the Atlantic and landed safely at Schiphol with 322 passengers on board after the crew extinguished the fire.
The incident occurred several hours into the long-haul service on 17 September and was reported the following day. KLM began an investigation and rebooked passengers after the return to Amsterdam. No serious injuries were reported, although some accounts mentioned minor burns.
The case again draws attention to the risks posed by lithium-ion power banks on long-haul flights, particularly when they are charged or used in breach of airline safety rules. KLM allows passengers to carry power banks, but they must remain with the traveller and may not be used or charged onboard.