An IndiGo flight traveling from Delhi to Chennai diverted to Hyderabad on Sunday after a passenger’s personal electronic device began emitting smoke mid-air. The incident prompted swift action from the onboard cabin crew and concluded with a safe landing at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport.
According to the airline, flight 6E 6115 was en route to Chennai on October 11 when smoke was detected coming from a customer’s electronic device. Reports identified the item as a power bank containing a lithium-ion battery, which was stored in the overhead baggage compartment. The prompt intervention of the cabin crew ensured that the situation was brought under control quickly.
Prompt Crew Response and Safe Diversion
The airline stated that the pilots followed standard operating protocols by deciding to divert the aircraft. Because the crew successfully doused the smoke and contained the hazard before landing, airport officials confirmed that no emergency or priority landing was required.
“IndiGo flight 6E 6115, operating from Delhi to Chennai, was diverted to Hyderabad after smoke was detected from a customer’s personal electronic device. The cabin crew responded promptly and the situation was brought under control,” the airline said in an official statement.
Carrying nearly 190 people onboard, the aircraft touched down safely in Hyderabad. IndiGo arranged an alternative aircraft to transport the stranded passengers safely to their original destination in Chennai later that evening, providing refreshments and timely updates to minimize inconvenience.
Growing Concerns Over Lithium-Ion Batteries on Flights
This mid-air scare highlights ongoing safety concerns regarding lithium-ion batteries and power banks on commercial flights. Aviation authorities, including India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), have previously issued strict safety advisories regarding battery-powered electronics.
Earlier safety guidelines mandate that passengers must:
- Carry power banks and spare batteries exclusively in hand baggage rather than check-in luggage.
- Keep electronic devices and power banks within personal reach (such as under seats or in seat pockets) rather than unattended in overhead bins.
- Avoid charging mobile phones or other devices using power banks while onboard.
- Immediately alert cabin crew if any device emits heat, unusual odors, smoke, or flames.
Airlines continue to emphasize passenger vigilance and adherence to safety protocols to prevent similar fire hazards from disrupting commercial flight operations.
