Delhi-Chennai IndiGo flight diverted after smoke detected from ‘electronic device’: What rules say about carrying gadgets | Trending

An IndiGo flight from Delhi to Chennai was diverted to Hyderabad after smoke was detected from a passenger’s personal electronic device onboard, triggering an immediate response from the cabin crew. The carrier confirmed the incident, noting the situation was brought under control as crew acted promptly.

The aircraft landed at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad, where arrangements were made for an alternate aircraft to continue the journey to Chennai. IndiGo said it regretted the inconvenience and was providing refreshments and updates to passengers during the diversion.

IndiGo’s baggage policy states that power banks and spare or loose lithium batteries are permitted only in hand baggage and must remain within the passenger’s reach at all times. The policy also specifies that such batteries must not be stowed in overhead compartments or checked baggage.

The airline allows a maximum of two spare lithium-ion batteries, including power banks, up to 100 watt-hours (Wh), subject to airport security clearance. Batteries above 100 Wh and up to 160 Wh are allowed only under limited circumstances and with prior airline approval for portable medical devices.

DGCA guidance on power banks prohibits using them to charge devices during flights and also requires that power banks and spare batteries not be stored in overhead compartments, reinforcing safety considerations for in-flight handling and storage.