Air NZ looking at new fire equipment on planes

Air NZ is investigating further steps to contain burning objects on planes as concern about the danger of lithium battery-powered devices catching fire grows. At least 3 US airlines are adding new fire-suppression equipment to fleets in case a cell phone or laptop battery overheats, catches on fire and can't be extinguished. An Air NZ spokeswoman said the airline carries flame resistant gloves on board its aircraft to protect a person who may be handling an object that has overheated or caught fire. "In addition to this we are currently looking into other possible containment equipment options." The issue has taken on new urgency following incidents of overheating Samsung Galaxy Note 7 phones, including one on a Southwest Airlines flight earlier this month. <br/>