An IndiGo flight from Delhi to Chennai was diverted to Hyderabad on Sunday after a passenger’s power bank reportedly caught fire inside the aircraft. The cabin crew quickly controlled the situation, allowing the plane to land safely.
The incident involved flight 6E 6115, which was carrying 191 people, according to reports. Smoke from a passenger’s electronic device prompted the pilots to change the aircraft’s route and follow established safety procedures.
Cabin Crew Responds to Onboard Fire
The incident occurred on October 11, 2026, while the aircraft was travelling from Delhi to Chennai. Reports said the fire broke out in an overhead luggage compartment. Cabin crew members responded promptly and used onboard fire extinguishers to put out the flames. The aircraft then landed safely at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad.
IndiGo confirmed that smoke had emerged from a passenger’s personal electronic device. However, the airline’s initial statement did not independently identify the device as a power bank.
The airline apologised for the disruption and arranged an alternative aircraft to take passengers to Chennai. It also offered refreshments and updates while passengers waited to continue their journey.
Incident Raises Concerns Over Battery Safety
Power banks commonly use lithium-ion batteries, which can overheat and catch fire if damaged or faulty. Short circuits and improper handling can also increase the risk. Such incidents pose particular challenges during flights because smoke and flames can spread quickly in enclosed spaces. Therefore, cabin crews must respond immediately when a device shows signs of overheating.
Aviation safety guidance generally requires passengers to carry power banks in cabin baggage rather than checked luggage. Passengers should also avoid using or charging them during flights when airline rules prohibit it.
Airlines Face Growing Safety Concerns
The incident has renewed attention on the risks associated with lithium batteries aboard aircraft. Airlines and aviation authorities continue to emphasise proper battery storage and prompt reporting of unusual heat, smoke or odours. Although the crew brought this incident under control and the aircraft landed safely, the diversion disrupted passengers’ travel plans. Authorities may review the circumstances to determine how the device caught fire.
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