A tense situation unfolded on May 5, 2026, when an IndiGo flight operating between Hyderabad and Chandigarh was evacuated after a passenger’s power bank caught fire shortly after landing.
Thanks to rapid action by the cabin crew, all 198 passengers and crew members evacuated safely, highlighting the effectiveness of modern aviation safety protocols.
What Happened on IndiGo Flight 6E108?
The incident involved IndiGo flight 6E108, which had arrived from Hyderabad and was on the tarmac at Chandigarh Airport when smoke was detected inside the cabin.
Key Incident Details
- Flight Number: 6E108
- Route: Hyderabad → Chandigarh
- Date: May 5, 2026
- Cause: Lithium-ion power bank overheating and catching fire
- Location: Aircraft cabin after landing
- Passengers & Crew: 198 onboard
- Outcome: All evacuated safely, no serious injuries
Cabin crew immediately used onboard fire extinguishers and followed emergency protocols, preventing the situation from escalating.
Emergency Evacuation: How the Crew Responded
Airline officials confirmed that trained crew members acted within seconds:
Fire quickly contained using extinguishers
Emergency slides deployed
Passengers evacuated in an orderly manner
Airport emergency teams responded immediately
The swift evacuation demonstrates the importance of routine aviation safety training followed by Indian airlines.
Why Power Banks Pose Aviation Risks
Lithium-ion batteries — commonly used in power banks — are among the leading causes of onboard fire incidents worldwide.
Aviation Safety Rules (2026 Update)
- Power banks are strictly banned in checked baggage
- Must be carried only in cabin luggage
- Passengers cannot use power banks to charge devices during flights under updated Indian aviation safety guidance
- Devices showing overheating must be reported immediately to crew
These regulations are enforced under aviation safety oversight by India’s civil aviation regulator.
Rising Focus on Passenger Safety in 2026
Recent aviation incidents involving electronic devices have increased regulatory vigilance across airlines operating in India.
Airlines now emphasize:
- Enhanced cabin surveillance
- Crew emergency response drills
- Passenger awareness announcements
- Battery safety inspections during boarding
Industry experts note that well-trained crew responses typically prevent major incidents, as seen in this case.
Passenger Safety: What Travelers Should Remember
Before boarding any flight:
✔ Carry power banks only in hand baggage
✔ Avoid charging devices mid-flight
✔ Do not store batteries under seats or inside overhead bins if overheating
✔ Inform cabin crew immediately if smoke or heat is noticed
Small precautions significantly reduce aviation risks.
Conclusion
The safe evacuation of IndiGo flight 6E108 reinforces confidence in India’s aviation safety ecosystem. While lithium battery incidents remain a global concern, professional crew training and strict regulations continue to ensure passenger safety remains the top priority
0 Comments