An IndiGo flight at Chandigarh airport witnessed panic after a passenger’s power bank reportedly caught fire inside the aircraft shortly after landing, leading to an emergency evacuation of all passengers and crew members. The incident has once again brought attention to the risks linked to lithium-ion batteries carried onboard flights.
The incident took place on Tuesday on an IndiGo flight that had arrived in Chandigarh from Hyderabad. According to reports, smoke began emerging from a cabin bag after the aircraft landed and was stationed at the airport. Passengers and crew quickly noticed the smoke inside the cabin, following which emergency procedures were initiated.
The airline immediately began evacuating passengers through emergency slides as airport emergency teams rushed to the aircraft. Reports stated that over 200 passengers were onboard at the time of the incident.
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Passengers evacuated through emergency slides
According to the reports of News18, several passengers later described scenes of confusion and panic as smoke spread through parts of the cabin. Cabin crew members reportedly instructed passengers to leave the aircraft quickly using emergency exits and inflatable slides.
Six passengers suffered minor injuries during the evacuation process and were later taken to nearby hospitals for medical attention. Authorities confirmed that all passengers and crew members were safely evacuated from the aircraft.
Airport emergency services and firefighters responded quickly and managed to control the situation before it could worsen. Since the aircraft had already landed, officials said a major disaster was avoided.
Passengers speak about tense moments
As per the report of News18, some passengers later spoke to the media outlets about the frightening experience inside the aircraft. Many said the incident raised concerns about carrying electronic devices such as power banks during flights.
One report quoted passengers wondering what could have happened if the fire had started while the aircraft was still in the air. Some described the evacuation as chaotic, while others praised the cabin crew for acting quickly during the emergency.
The smoke from lithium-ion battery fires can spread rapidly inside enclosed spaces, increasing risks inside aircraft cabins.
DGCA rules on power banks under spotlight
Following the incident, discussions around aviation safety rules related to power banks and lithium-ion batteries intensified. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had earlier issued safety regulations for passengers carrying power banks onboard flights.
Under existing rules, power banks are not allowed in checked-in baggage and can only be carried in cabin luggage. Aviation authorities have repeatedly warned passengers against placing such devices in cargo holds because overheating batteries can catch fire.
Reports also stated that passengers are not permitted to use power banks for charging devices during flights due to potential overheating risks.
Lithium-ion batteries, commonly used in phones, laptops and portable chargers, are known to pose fire hazards if damaged, overcharged or exposed to extreme temperatures.
Investigation underway
IndiGo confirmed that all passengers and crew members were safely evacuated from the aircraft. The airline has not yet released detailed findings regarding the exact cause of the fire.
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Authorities are now expected to investigate whether the power bank was damaged, defective or improperly handled before the incident occurred. Aviation experts may also review whether additional screening or stricter rules are needed for electronic devices carried onboard aircraft.
The Chandigarh incident has once again highlighted the importance of quick emergency response systems at airports and the growing concerns around lithium-ion battery safety in air travel.
