On October 13, 2026, an IndiGo domestic flight traveling from Delhi to Chennai experienced a serious safety incident when a passenger’s portable power bank ignited while the aircraft was cruising at 35,000 feet. The fire was detected in an overhead bin about two and a half hours into the flight, prompting the cabin crew to act immediately.
Rapid response and diversion
According to an IndiGo spokesperson quoted by The Times of India, the crew quickly contained the smoke and extinguished the flame. Following established safety protocols, the pilots began a controlled descent, bringing the aircraft down to 3,700 feet before turning 90 degrees toward Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) in Hyderabad. The plane landed safely at approximately 3:30 p.m. local time.
No injuries reported
All 180 passengers and crew members emerged unharmed. After the aircraft was secured, passengers were transferred to another IndiGo flight that continued on to Chennai, ensuring minimal disruption to their travel plans.
Safety implications
The incident highlights the importance of adhering to airline regulations regarding electronic devices. While power banks are common travel accessories, they can pose a fire risk if damaged or improperly handled. Aviation authorities worldwide continue to advise passengers to keep such devices in carry‑on luggage and to follow airline instructions for storage.
Airline’s statement
IndiGo emphasized that the cabin crew’s prompt action and the pilots’ adherence to safety procedures were critical in preventing any harm. The airline reiterated its commitment to passenger safety and said it would review the incident to determine if additional guidance on portable electronic devices is needed.
What travelers should know
Passengers are reminded to:
- Inspect power banks for any signs of damage before travel.
- Store them in the overhead bin or under the seat as instructed by crew.
- Report any unusual heat, smoke, or odor from electronic devices to flight attendants immediately.
Airlines and regulators continue to monitor such incidents to ensure that safety standards evolve with the increasing use of personal electronic devices on board.
Original reporting: WPBF West Palm Beach — read the source article.
