On May 19, 2026, easyJet flight EZY2618 from Hurghada, Egypt, to London Luton was forced to divert to Rome Fiumicino after the crew received an alert that an external battery was being used inside a checked bag. The airline confirmed that a passenger was charging a device—reportedly a mobile phone—via a power bank stored in the hold. Following standard safety procedures, the captain decided to divert as a precaution, and the aircraft landed safely in Rome that evening. Passengers experienced a tense moment of uncertainty. One traveler, Paul Casterton, told The Sun: "Nobody knew what to think. Suddenly the plane changed course and began its descent. It was hard not to fear the worst." Relief came after landing when the real cause was clarified. "Fortunately, it wasn't a bomb in the hold," he added. **Why this matters for aviation safety** Lithium-ion batteries, including power banks, are classified as dangerous goods by ICAO and EASA. Their transport is strictly regulated: they are forbidden in checked luggage unless installed in a device, and must be carried in the cabin. The primary risk is thermal runaway, which can cause a fire that is extremely difficult to detect and control in the hold. Several serious incidents—including in-flight fires—have been linked to lithium batteries, justifying the rigorous procedures. **Operational impact and passenger handling** After landing in Rome, passengers were disembarked normally. easyJet stated that "the safety of customers and crew is its highest priority." The flight was rescheduled for the following morning. Some passengers received accommodation, while others waited at the airport. The airline apologized for the disruption. **MyATPS angle for ATPL and ATC students** This real-world case is a textbook example of how dangerous goods regulations (DGR) apply in practice. For ATPL candidates, it reinforces the importance of knowing which items are prohibited in the hold and the crew's responsibility to act on any alert. For ATC students, it illustrates how a diversion for a safety issue—even one that seems minor—can cascade into airspace coordination, ground handling, and passenger logistics. Understanding the rationale behind these rules is essential for both pilots and controllers.