IndiGo Delhi-Chennai flight diverted to Hyderabad after power bank catches fire in cabin

An IndiGo flight from Delhi to Chennai was diverted to Hyderabad on Saturday after an electronic device, reported to be a power bank, caught fire inside a bag in an overhead cabin bin.

Passengers on flight 6E 6115 helped smother the flames with clothing and backpacks, and the cabin crew also responded. The aircraft landed safely at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Shamshabad. No injuries were reported.

In a statement, IndiGo said its cabin crew acted promptly and brought the situation under control, and that the pilots diverted the aircraft in line with standard procedures. The airline arranged another aircraft to take passengers on to Chennai.

The rules on power banks

Under IndiGo's baggage policy, power banks and spare lithium batteries are allowed only in hand baggage. They must stay within the passenger's reach, such as under the seat in front or in the seat pocket, and must not be placed in overhead bins or checked-in bags. Passengers may carry up to two spare lithium-ion batteries rated up to 100 Wh, subject to security clearance.

Lithium battery fires can spread quickly, and keeping devices within reach lets crew spot and deal with smoke or heat early. Several such incidents have been reported on Indian flights over the past year, prompting repeated reminders from airlines.

What passengers should do

Travellers should carry power banks in their hand baggage, keep them switched off and within reach, and avoid using damaged, swollen or uncertified devices. Any smoke, heat or smell of burning should be reported to the cabin crew immediately.