A routine journey from Delhi to Chennai turned into a tense situation on Sunday, October 11, after a power bank reportedly caught fire aboard an IndiGo aircraft, forcing the pilots to divert the flight to Hyderabad. The aircraft landed safely at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, and all passengers and crew members were reported safe.
The incident involved IndiGo flight 6E6115, which was operating an Airbus A321-251N. The flight was scheduled to depart Delhi at 1:10 pm but took off at around 1:30 pm. It was expected to reach Chennai by 4 pm. However, the journey took an unexpected turn after smoke was detected from a passenger's personal electronic device inside the cabin.
What Happened Inside the IndiGo Flight?
According to the information shared by IndiGo, smoke was detected coming from a passenger's electronic device, reportedly a power bank. The situation raised immediate safety concerns, prompting the cabin crew to respond without delay.
A video recorded by a passenger has also surfaced online, capturing the tense moments inside the aircraft. The footage reportedly shows passengers reacting to the incident and attempting to help as smoke and flames were seen around the overhead luggage compartment.
The cabin crew used fire extinguishers to bring the situation under control. Meanwhile, the pilots decided to divert the aircraft to Hyderabad as a precautionary measure, following established safety procedures.
The aircraft landed safely at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport. Fortunately, all passengers and crew members were reported safe.
IndiGo Issues Statement After the Incident
Following the diversion, IndiGo confirmed that the flight had been redirected to Hyderabad after smoke was detected from a customer's personal electronic device.
In its statement, the airline said the cabin crew responded promptly and managed to bring the situation under control. It also confirmed that the pilots followed established safety protocols before landing safely in Hyderabad.
The unexpected diversion disrupted passengers' travel plans, but the airline said it was taking steps to minimise the inconvenience. An alternative aircraft was arranged to help passengers continue their journey to Chennai.
IndiGo also said it was providing refreshments and timely updates to affected customers, while reiterating that the safety of passengers and crew remained its top priority.
Why Can a Power Bank Become a Fire Risk on a Flight?
Power banks have become an everyday travel essential, allowing passengers to charge their phones and other electronic devices while on the move. However, these portable chargers typically contain lithium-based batteries, which can pose a fire risk if they malfunction.
Battery damage, internal short circuits, manufacturing defects or excessive heat can cause a battery to overheat and, in some cases, catch fire. This process can escalate quickly, making immediate action particularly important inside an aircraft.
The precise technical cause of the reported incident aboard IndiGo flight 6E6115 has not yet been independently established. Nevertheless, the episode highlights the importance of battery safety during air travel.
What Should Passengers Keep in Mind When Travelling With Power Banks?
Passengers should always check the latest airline rules before carrying power banks on a flight. Battery capacity limits, packing requirements and restrictions on using or charging portable batteries may vary according to applicable regulations and airline policies.
Power banks should generally be carried in cabin baggage, subject to current airline rules, rather than packed in checked-in luggage. Devices that are damaged, swollen or unusually hot should not be carried on board.
If a passenger notices smoke, an unusual burning smell or excessive heat coming from an electronic device during a flight, the safest response is to alert the cabin crew immediately and follow their instructions.
Cabin crew members are trained to handle onboard emergencies, and their prompt intervention is essential when a battery-related incident occurs.
Passengers to Continue Their Journey to Chennai
After landing in Hyderabad, IndiGo arranged an alternative aircraft for passengers who were travelling to Chennai. The airline said it was working to make the onward journey as smooth as possible despite the unexpected disruption.
Although the diversion caused inconvenience, the aircraft's safe landing and the reported absence of injuries were reassuring outcomes in an incident that could have become more serious.
The episode also brings renewed attention to the risks associated with lithium-battery devices during air travel. Power banks may be small and commonly used, but a malfunction can quickly become a serious safety concern.
Conclusion: Powerbank Fire on IndiGo Aircraft
The powerbank fire on IndiGo aircraft operating as flight 6E6115 led to the diversion of a Delhi–Chennai flight to Hyderabad on October 11. The cabin crew responded to the incident, the pilots followed safety procedures, and the aircraft landed safely with all passengers and crew members reported safe.
As air travel continues to rely on portable electronic devices, the incident serves as a reminder for passengers to follow battery safety guidelines and comply with airline regulations.
Disclaimer: This report is based on the incident details and airline statement provided. The exact technical cause of the reported fire has not been independently verified, and further official information may clarify the circumstances.
