A laptop charger caused a fire at the departure area of the Dumaguete-Sibulan Airport on Sunday night, June 23, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) reported yesterday.

The CAAP said the plugged charger began emitting smoke at around 8:23 p.m.

A security personnel used a fire extinguisher and was able to “fully extinguish” the fire from the “burning charger” at 8:25 p.m., based on CAAP’s report.

Close to 160 passengers had to be temporarily relocated to the ramp area because of the strong smell of smoke.

No flight was affected, and the passengers were able to go back to the pre-departure area at 8:40 p.m., the report added.

The CAAP advised passengers to ensure their gadgets are in good condition before plugging these into airport outlets.

“CAAP strongly encourages the public to be vigilant with their electronic gadgets at airports, ensuring they are properly inspected and in good condition to prevent any potential incidents,” it said. (PNA)