Video: Power bank bursts into flames on IndiGo flight

HYDERABAD: An IndiGo Airlines flight travelling from Delhi to Chennai was diverted to Hyderabad after a power bank caught fire mid-air, forcing the aircraft to make an emergency landing. The incident occurred while the plane was cruising at an altitude of 35,000 feet.

According to aviation sources, the fire broke out in a power bank stored in a passenger’s overhead compartment aboard IndiGo flight 6E6115, creating an emergency situation inside the aircraft.

The cabin crew acted promptly and extinguished the flames using a fire extinguisher. However, prioritising passenger safety, the pilots diverted the aircraft to Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad.

Following a safe landing, the aircraft was grounded for inspection. Arrangements were subsequently made to transport passengers to their destination in Chennai on an alternative aircraft.

Aviation sources said lithium-ion batteries used in power banks can catch fire if they overheat or become damaged.

In view of this risk, power banks are generally recommended to be carried in hand baggage during air travel, allowing crew members to respond promptly in the event of overheating, smoke or fire.