On Sunday, March 15, 2026, a vape caught fire onboard Virgin Australia Flight VA328, which was travelling from Brisbane to Melbourne, Australia. The flight crew issued a “PAN” call – an urgent radio signal indicating a serious situation that is not an immediate “Mayday” threat – while the aircraft was descending into Melbourne.
The Incident
The vape caught fire onboard the aircraft, as the device activated and ignited while the Boeing 737 was approaching its destination. Once the plane landed at Melbourne Airport around 4:20 p.m. (AEDT), it was met on the tarmac by Aviation Rescue Firefighters. They boarded the aircraft to safely remove the damaged vape from the cabin.
The crew managed the situation effectively while still in flight, and all passengers were able to disembark at the gate with no reported injuries.
A Melbourne Airport spokesperson stated:
“The Boeing 737 aircraft landed safely and taxied to the gate where passengers were able to disembark normally.”
While not yet confirmed for this specific case, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) can issue substantial fines for carrying “dangerous goods” improperly or for devices that cause an in-flight emergency. Under Australian law, vaping on a plane is a federal offence, and accidental fires caused by negligence, such as improper packing, can trigger an investigation.
Airlines Safety Rules for Vapes
Virgin Australia has strict rules for vapes:
- Vapes, e-cigarettes, and personal vaporisers must be in carry-on baggage only; they are strictly prohibited in checked luggage.
- Passengers are required to take precautions (such as removing batteries or using a protective case) to ensure the device cannot be accidentally turned on during the flight.
- Using or charging vapes and power banks is typically prohibited during the flight to prevent overheating.
To avoid these situations, CASA’s “Pack Right” guidelines require vapes to be kept in carry-on baggage, turned off, and protected from accidental activation. Airlines like Virgin Australia have the right to place passengers on a no-fly list if their actions or equipment significantly endanger the aircraft and other passengers.
What are your thoughts on this incident? Have you ever experienced anything like this? Let us know in the comments down below!
