Investigation number
AO-2025-043
Occurrence date
Location
22 km north-north-east of Hobart Airport
State
Tasmania
Report status
Pending
Investigation level
Short
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation phase
Evidence collection
Investigation status
Active
Aviation occurrence category
Fire
Occurrence class
Serious Incident
Highest injury level
None
Anticipated completion

The ATSB is investigating a cabin fire involving a Virgin Australia Airlines Boeing 737, VH-YFY, 22 km north-north-east of Hobart, Tasmania, on 20 July 2025. The aircraft was operating as Virgin Australia Airlines flight VA1528, scheduled from Sydney, New South Wales to Hobart, Tasmania.

During descent to land at Hobart Airport, fire was observed emanating from a passenger's power bank in an overhead locker. The fire was extinguished by firefighters after the aircraft landed.

The evidence collection phase of the investigation will involve interviewing the cabin crew, reviewing operator documentation, and the collection of other relevant information.

A final report will be released at the conclusion of the investigation. Should a critical safety issue be identified during the course of the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties, so that appropriate safety action can be taken.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
The Boeing Company
Model
737-800
Registration
VH-YFY
Aircraft Operator
Virgin Australia Airlines
Serial number
41016
Operation type
Part 121 Air transport operations - larger aeroplanes
Sector
Jet
Departure point
Sydney Airport, New South Wales
Departure time
0717
Destination
Hobart Airport, Tasmania
Damage
Minor