An Air France flight from Paris to Guadeloupe was forced to return to Paris Orly Airport just two hours into its journey after a passenger lost their phone mid-flight.
The Boeing 777, carrying 375 passengers and 12 crew members, had to loop back after departing at noon local time. FlightRadar24 data showed the aircraft turning back off the west coast of France before heading back to its departure point.
Airlines enforce strict policies on the use of electronic devices like phones, tablets, and laptops for safety reasons. Aviation experts warn that signals from such devices can interfere with aircraft navigational systems, particularly during takeoff and landing. While most airlines allow devices to be in airplane mode, some have taken stricter measures to mitigate risks.
In recent years, concerns over lithium battery safety have led airlines like Singapore Airlines and Thai Airways to ban portable chargers during flights. Lithium batteries pose a fire hazard due to their ability to generate extreme heat, making them a serious concern in aviation safety.
The issue is not new. Since 2006, the Federal Aviation Administration has recorded over 500 incidents involving lithium batteries causing smoke, fire, or extreme heat on US flights. With the increasing reliance on electronic devices, airlines continue to balance passenger convenience with safety regulations.