- A power bank reportedly ignited inside an overhead compartment on an IndiGo flight travelling from Delhi to Chennai on 14 October 2026
- Passengers and crew scrambled to douse the flames using a fire extinguisher and water bottles as smoke filled the crowded cabin
- IndiGo Airlines confirmed the Delhi-to-Chennai flight was forced to divert to Hyderabad after smoke from a passenger's electronic device broke out mid-flight
Source: Getty Images
A passenger's power bank turned a routine IndiGo flight into a terrifying ordeal when it ignited inside an overhead compartment, forcing the aircraft to make an emergency diversion.
A phone-recorded video from inside the cabin, shared by Fox News on Instagram, captured the frightening scene. Passengers could be heard shouting as crew members rushed to fight the fire. A charred overhead bin and a scorched backpack were visible in the footage, with both crew and passengers working together to extinguish the blaze using a fire extinguisher and water bottles.
IndiGo Airlines confirmed that smoke from a passenger's electronic device forced the Delhi-to-Chennai flight to divert to Hyderabad, where the aircraft landed safely.
Source: Getty Images
Power banks pose a growing cabin safety risk
Aviation authorities have long warned travellers against carrying certain types of lithium-ion power banks on board, particularly in checked luggage, due to the risk of thermal runaway, where batteries overheat and catch fire rapidly. Despite these warnings, incidents involving personal electronics continue to occur.
The IndiGo incident serves as a stark reminder of why airlines enforce strict regulations around portable charging devices. Passengers are typically required to carry power banks in their hand luggage only, where cabin crew can respond quickly if something goes wrong.
View the Instagram video here.
Viewers react to the mid-air scare
People on the page had plenty to say about the frightening footage:
@brianlorry said:
"Good job by passengers by keeping calm and removing the bag ❤❤"
@nasser_26_10 wrote:
"It is very important to remind airplane passengers to check their personal belongings."
@adult_stifler commented:
"They always advise against carrying power banks, just negligence to flight safety guidelines... 🙌"
@gavinbaird joked:
"Only 9 business days for flight attendant to respond."
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Source: Briefly News
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