Panic Erupts on EasyJet Flight as Vape Ignites in Passenger's Bag

Heraklion, Greece - An EasyJet flight destined for London Gatwick was thrown into chaos earlier today when a passenger's bag containing a vape and power bank caught fire, prompting an emergency evacuation.

The incident unfolded on flight EZY8216 shortly before takeoff from Heraklion Airport. Passengers reported hearing popping sounds and seeing smoke emanating from the bag, which was located in the cabin. Panic ensued as a "large red flash and flame" followed by "thick black smoke" filled the aircraft.

"Someone was asking 'what is that, what is that?' as I was taking my seat, then seconds later the explosion occurred," a passenger recounted to MailOnline. Witnesses described scenes of pandemonium, with some passengers "screaming bomb and clattering to get out."

The owner of the bag, reportedly a British woman, attempted to exit the plane while it was engulfed in smoke. In the confusion, she dropped the bag in the aisle, leaving a scorch mark on the floor.

Thankfully, all 236 passengers, including two children, were safely evacuated onto the runway within minutes using the emergency slides. One passenger sustained a friction burn from the slide, but no other injuries were reported.

Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene. After an investigation, passengers were allowed back on the aircraft to retrieve their belongings. EasyJet provided food vouchers and arranged a replacement flight for the stranded travellers, who finally departed later in the evening.

"EasyJet have kept us up to date with the replacement flight…they gave us a voucher to get food," a passenger shared. "All the staff have been very helpful and it was as painless as it could be given the circumstances."

An EasyJet spokesperson confirmed the incident, stating: "Fire services attended the aircraft and cabin crew evacuated the aircraft in line with procedures… Safety is our highest priority." This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by lithium-ion batteries found in vapes and power banks, particularly in confined spaces like aircraft cabins.