Fire breaks out onboard Virgin flight in landing drama
Virgin Australia has not confirmed the cause of a fire that broke out in a plane's overhead locker. (James Gourley/AAP PHOTOS) Credit: AAP
Cabin crew on a domestic flight have been forced to swiftly contain a fire that broke out in an overhead compartment.
Virgin Australia flight VA1528 was travelling from Sydney to Hobart when smoke began to appear in the cabin shortly before landing.
Crews opened an overhead compartment and discovered a fire, using water and a fire extinguisher to bring it under control.
The flight landed safely on Monday morning at Hobart Airport.
Firefighters met the aircraft once it landed and removed a bag from the overhead locker, a Virgin Australia spokesperson said.
"Safety is always our highest priority. We appreciate the swift and professional response of our flight and cabin crew, as well as the support of Airservices Australia firefighters," the spokesperson said.
The aircraft is being assessed for damage to the overhead locker and a replacement aircraft was sourced for a return flight to Sydney.
Hobart Airport chief operating officer Matt Cocker said all passengers safely disembarked the aircraft, with one person assessed by paramedics for suspected smoke inhalation.
Virgin Australia has not confirmed the cause of the fire.
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