An international easyJet flight bound for London diverted to Rome Fiumicino Airport on Tuesday evening, May 19, 2026, after a passenger alerted the crew that a portable power bank was actively charging inside her checked baggage.
Flight EZY2618 was transporting approximately 180 passengers from Hurghada, Egypt, to London Luton Airport when the cabin crew learned about the lithium-ion device, which violates international aviation safety regulations due to severe fire risks in the cargo hold.
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A spokesperson for easyJet confirmed the incident to media outlets, explaining that the aircraft landed safely and passengers disembarked routinely before receiving hotel accommodation, meals, and refreshments.
"Flight EZY2618 from Hurghada to Luton on May 19 diverted to Rome Fiumicino as the crew were informed a power bank was charging in luggage," said the easyJet spokesperson.
The airline representative added that the plane was rescheduled to operate the following morning, while some travelers opted to book alternative flights independently to meet urgent commitments.
"The captain then took the decision to divert as a precaution in line with safety regulations," the spokesperson continued.
Aviation safety agencies, including the U. S.
Transportation Security Administration and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency, strictly prohibit spare lithium batteries in checked luggage because thermal runaway can rapidly overwhelm automated cargo fire suppression systems.
"The aircraft landed safely, and passengers disembarked routinely," the spokesperson added.
The diversion occurred amid broader commercial updates from the airline, which recently reported a two percent year-over-year decline in summer flight bookings due to regional geopolitical uncertainties.
"We provided hotel accommodation and meals where available," the spokesperson said.
EasyJet Chief Executive Kenton Jarvis previously stated to BBC Radio 4 that the airline would not implement fuel surcharges despite global market pressures.
"As some customers remained in the airport, they were provided with refreshments," the spokesperson said.
The airline emphasized that its operations strictly comply with all manufacturer guidelines to ensure passenger security.
"The safety of its passengers and crew is easyJet's highest priority, and easyJet operates its fleet of aircraft in strict compliance with all manufacturers' guidelines," the spokesperson added.
The carrier expressed regret for the disruption experienced by the travelers during the unscheduled overnight stop in Italy.
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"We would like to apologise to all passengers for any inconvenience caused by the diversion and subsequent delay," the spokesperson said.
Passengers aboard the aircraft reported experiencing significant anxiety when the flight abruptly changed course following an ambiguous mid-flight announcement by the pilot.
"No one knew what to think," said passenger Paul Casterton, a 57-year-old construction worker traveling with his partner.
He noted that anxiety turned into collective relief once the true cause of the emergency landing became known to the cabin.
"Suddenly, the plane changed direction and made a descent," Casterton said.
The flight subsequently landed in Rome at approximately 11:30 p. m.
, where passengers remained until alternative travel arrangements were finalized.
"It was hard not to fear the worst," Casterton said.
The airline safety rules require passengers to keep all portable chargers inside cabin baggage where any overheating can be managed immediately.
"Thank goodness it wasn’t a bomb in the hold," Casterton said.
A passenger reportedly spent £350 to book a separate Wizzair service to avoid missing a pressing appointment the next day.
"Word spread as to the true reason we had been diverted," Casterton said.
Aviation authorities worldwide continue to tighten restrictions on lithium-based electronics, with nations like South Korea and Thailand implementing strict onboard usage bans.
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"It was quite an ordeal, but mostly relief that everyone was OK," Casterton said.
