"From Preventing to Extinguishing Fires On Board"
Jeju Air has introduced 'lithium battery fire suppression pouches' and 'heat-resistant gloves' on board to minimize the risks caused by battery fires.
Jeju Air cabin crew receiving instructions on the use of lithium battery fire extinguishing pouches and heat-resistant gloves. Provided by Jeju Air.
Jeju Air announced on the 24th that it completed equipping all aircraft with lithium battery fire suppression pouches and heat-resistant gloves on the 21st, and informed cabin crew members on how to use them.
The outer shell of the fire suppression pouch is made of 'silica,' a flame-retardant material that can withstand temperatures up to 1600 degrees Celsius. The interior consists of a 'kaolin pad,' which, in the event of a fire inside the pouch, melts from the heat to cover the battery and block oxygen, enabling self-extinguishing of the fire. If a battery shows signs of overheating or swelling on board, crew members place the battery into the pouch and store it in the galley at the rear of the aircraft while continuously monitoring it.
The fire suppression pouch introduced this time is a product that has passed tests conducted by KATRI Testing & Research Institute, an internationally accredited testing organization, confirming its safety. Since April last year, Jeju Air has participated in all processes related to the pouch introduction, including selecting the manufacturer, choosing the materials for the equipment, designing, and creating the user manual.
A Jeju Air official said, "We have introduced fire suppression pouches on all aircraft to minimize risks caused by battery fires," adding, "We will continue to do our best to ensure safe air travel for our customers."
Meanwhile, Jeju Air has been operating strengthened regulations related to lithium batteries since the 6th of this month. Passengers are required to agree to rules such as carrying lithium batteries, including auxiliary batteries, visibly during mobile or kiosk check-in stages and prohibiting storage in overhead compartments on board.
Starting from the 1st of next month, before the cabin crew’s safety demonstration prior to takeoff, the chief flight attendant will emphasize their responsibility for in-flight safety as a safety officer through an announcement, aiming to increase passengers’ focus on the safety demonstration.
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