Passengers on an IndiGo flight were confronted with frightening scenes after a power bank reportedly caught fire in an overhead luggage compartment, sending flames and smoke into the cabin.
The incident happened on Sunday, 11 October 2026, on flight 6E6115 from Delhi to Chennai. The aircraft, an Airbus A321, was diverted to Hyderabad as a precaution.
Video circulating on X shows orange flames in an open overhead locker while passengers attempt to control the fire using bags and clothing. Others film the incident or move away from the burning compartment.
Flight diverted to Hyderabad
In a statement, IndiGo said smoke had been detected from a customer's personal electronic device and that cabin crew acted promptly to bring the situation under control.
The pilots diverted the flight to Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad, where it landed safely. More than 180 passengers were reportedly on board, and no injuries were reported.
IndiGo said it had arranged another aircraft for the onward journey to Chennai and apologised for the disruption, offering passengers refreshments and updates.
Power bank safety in the spotlight
The incident has renewed concern about lithium-ion battery fires in passenger aircraft. Damaged or faulty batteries can overheat and ignite rapidly, especially in confined spaces.
Spare lithium batteries and power banks must generally travel in cabin baggage rather than checked baggage. IndiGo's own rules also require power banks to remain within personal reach rather than in overhead lockers.
The exact cause has yet to be established publicly. While multiple reports identify a power bank, IndiGo's statement refers to a personal electronic device. The circulating footage has not established the identity of its original videographer.
The flight's safe diversion brought a terrifying moment to an end without reported injury.
