Chennai-bound IndiGo flight diverted after passenger’s power bank catches fire | What rules say
The aircraft was subsequently grounded for checks and maintenance; its return to service depends on an inspection of any impact or damage
An IndiGo flight from Delhi to Chennai was diverted to Hyderabad on Sunday due to a power bank catching fire, highlighting the fire risks associated with lithium batteries on aircraft. The 191 passengers onboard landed safely at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport around 3:15 pm. The airline stated the crew managed the situation effectively, and the aircraft underwent checks before returning to service.
Power banks use lithium-ion batteries that can overheat and cause a thermal runaway, leading to fires or explosions when damaged, overheated, overcharged, or due to manufacturing defects. The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) explains that this can result in uncontrollable heat generation, potentially resulting in a fire or explosion.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued an advisory on November 11, 2025, detailing the risks and recommending airlines to review onboard emergency equipment, strengthen safety procedures, and ensure passengers promptly alert the crew if a device shows signs of overheating, smoke, or unusual odors. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) introduced new rules on March 27, 2026, limiting passengers to carrying only two power banks and prohibiting their recharging during flights.
In India, the DGCA also prohibited power banks in checked baggage, allowing only cabin baggage and tightening safety requirements further. IndiGo's rules require passengers to keep power banks within personal reach, while Air India prohibits their placement in overhead bins. Overheating, smoke, or fire should be reported immediately to the cabin crew for prompt intervention.
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