Southwest Airlines Flight Experiences Onboard Laptop Battery Fire Upon Arrival in Reno

A Southwest Airlines flight from Las Vegas to Reno encountered an incident upon landing at Reno-Tahoe International Airport on March 19, 2025, when a passenger’s laptop battery caught fire as the aircraft was taxiing to the gate.

Emergency responders swiftly addressed the situation, ensuring all passengers deplaned safely without injuries.

This event highlights the increasing concern over lithium battery fires on aircraft.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has reported a significant rise in such incidents, with 69 cases recorded in 2024 alone—a 388% increase since 2015.

These statistics underscore the critical need for passengers to handle electronic devices responsibly during flights to ensure safety.