Passenger Carry-On Bag Ignites at Yeager Airport Checkpoint

Authorities at a West Virginia airport say a passenger’s carry-on bag ignited as it was going through a security checkpoint.

The Yeager Airport in Charleston says two lithium batteries attached to a charger in the bag caused a small explosion Wednesday. Airport police extinguished the flames, and the airport said there were no injuries or flight delays. The passenger continued on to the flight.

Airport Director Terry Sayre said passengers should review Transportation Security Administration regulations regarding prohibited and regulated items before flying.

The airport says in a news release that lithium batteries with more than 100 watt hours may be allowed in carry-on bags with airline approval but are limited to two spare batteries per passenger. Loose lithium batteries are prohibited in checked bags.

Battery regulations are available online.