Power Bank Fire Triggers IndiGo Flight Evacuation At Chandigarh Airport
IndiGo flight evacuated in Chandigarh after power bank fire
An emergency evacuation was carried out at the Chandigarh Airport after a fire broke out on board an IndiGo flight, reportedly triggered by a passenger’s power bank. The incident occurred on flight 6E 108, which had arrived from Hyderabad and was stationary after landing when smoke was detected inside the cabin.
According to IndiGo, the fire originated from a customer’s personal electronic device. In a statement, the airline confirmed that an immediate evacuation was initiated as a precautionary measure and that all passengers were safely moved to the terminal. Airport and aviation authorities were promptly informed, and the aircraft was scheduled for detailed safety checks before returning to service.
Eyewitness accounts and visuals shared on social media platform X showed passengers evacuating the aircraft on the tarmac. Several travellers reported that the cabin filled with smoke following the fire, creating panic among those on board. Preliminary reports also suggested that around five passengers may have sustained minor injuries and were taken to a nearby hospital for medical attention, although official confirmation is awaited.
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The incident has once again raised concerns about the use and carriage of lithium-ion batteries and power banks during air travel. Aviation safety protocols strictly regulate such items due to their potential fire risk, especially in confined cabin spaces where rapid response is critical.
Under existing guidelines issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), passengers are permitted to carry power banks only in cabin baggage and not in checked luggage. However, they are prohibited from using them during flights for charging devices. The rules also restrict storage of such items in overhead bins, citing difficulties in detecting and controlling fires in those compartments.
Authorities are expected to conduct a detailed investigation into the exact cause of the fire and assess compliance with safety protocols. Meanwhile, IndiGo has reiterated that passenger and crew safety remains its highest priority, while confirming that standard procedures were followed during the emergency response.
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