A routine domestic flight turned tense at Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport on Tuesday when a power bank reportedly ignited inside the cabin of an IndiGo aircraft, prompting an emergency evacuation shortly after landing.
The Ahmedabad to Chandigarh service, operating as flight 6E-108, had completed its journey and touched down at approximately 3.29 pm. The situation escalated during taxiing when a passenger seated in the rear section noticed smoke and flames emanating from a personal electronic device. The individual immediately alerted the cabin crew, triggering a rapid onboard response.
Cabin Fills with Smoke, Emergency Protocol Activated
Airline staff quickly deployed fire extinguishers and managed to contain the flames before they could spread further. Despite the swift action, smoke had already begun circulating within the aircraft, leading to visible anxiety among passengers.
Once the aircraft reached its designated parking bay, crew members initiated emergency procedures. Within minutes, evacuation slides were deployed and passengers were instructed to exit the aircraft without delay. The evacuation, although efficient, became momentarily disorderly as passengers rushed to disembark.
Injuries Reported Amid Chaotic Evacuation
During the evacuation process, several passengers sustained minor injuries. One passenger, identified as Richa Acharya, suffered a serious ankle injury after slipping while descending an inflatable slide. She was later diagnosed with fractures and shifted for further medical treatment.
In total, five individuals, including two children, were reported injured, though most cases were minor. Medical assistance was promptly arranged, and the injured were transported to a nearby healthcare facility in Zirakpur with the help of airline personnel.
Fire Contained Before Emergency Services Intervened
An emergency response vehicle from the Indian Air Force arrived at the scene shortly after the evacuation began. However, by that time, the fire had already been brought under control by the onboard crew, eliminating the need for additional firefighting measures.
Passengers onboard later acknowledged the crewโs handling of the situation, noting that assistance was provided promptly through the evacuation and subsequent medical support.
Airline Confirms Incident, Orders Aircraft Inspection
In an official statement, IndiGo confirmed that the incident was caused by a passengerโs personal electronic device catching fire after the aircraft had come to a halt. The airline emphasized that all safety protocols were followed, and passengers were escorted safely to the terminal.
The aircraft involved has been temporarily grounded and will undergo detailed technical checks before returning to service. The airline reiterated its commitment to maintaining high safety standards for both passengers and crew.
Growing Concerns Around Lithium-Ion Battery Safety
The incident adds to a growing list of aviation safety concerns involving lithium-ion batteries, commonly used in power banks and personal electronic devices. These batteries, while efficient, are known to pose fire risks if damaged, overheated, or improperly handled.
Aviation regulators globally have issued strict guidelines regarding the carriage and usage of such devices onboard aircraft. Passengers are typically advised to keep power banks in cabin baggage and avoid using damaged or uncertified products.
Investigation Awaited as Authorities Assess Incident
Officials associated with airport operations are expected to conduct a detailed inquiry into the incident to determine the exact cause and evaluate safety compliance. A formal statement from airport authorities is anticipated following the investigation.
While no life-threatening injuries were reported, the episode highlights the importance of vigilance and preparedness in handling onboard emergencies, especially those linked to increasingly common personal electronic devices.
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