Technology News : On October 11, an IndiGo flight from Delhi to Chennai was diverted to Hyderabad after smoke was detected. Flight 6E 6115 was reported to have smoke coming from a passenger’s electronic device. However, Indigo did not confirm that the device is a power bank. The plane landed safely at the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad. However, this incident raises the question: Is it unsafe to carry a power bank on a flight and what precautions should be taken?
The power bank contains a lithium-ion battery. Damage or short circuits can cause lithium-ion batteries to overheat quickly. This process is called thermal runaway. This can release smoke, fire and noxious gases. After the situation was brought under control in the Indigo flight, the plane landed safely. This incident emphasizes the importance of caution when using electronic devices during air travel.
Important points to keep in mind:
1. Do not carry power bank in check-in bag
Power banks and lithium batteries are not allowed in check-in bags. They should be kept in the cabin baggage so that the crew can take immediate action if needed. As per IndiGo rules, power banks should be within reach of passengers. They are not allowed in overhead cabins. If your bag is being sent to the cargo area of the aircraft during boarding, remove the power bank from it.
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Do not charge your phone with a power bank in flight
Having a power bank on board doesn’t mean you can charge your phone during the flight. As per IndiGo’s baggage policy, the power bank cannot be used to charge other electronic devices on the plane. Don’t forget to check the latest airline regulations before travelling.
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Do not carry damaged or inflated power banks
If part of the power bank is swollen, cracked, or damaged by a fall, do not carry it in flight. Excessive heat, a burning smell or unusual noise during use can also be signs of a malfunction.
4. Battery capacity and regulations
Batteries up to 100 watt-hours (Wh) are generally allowed in cabin baggage. Batteries between 100 and 160 Wh may require airline approval, while batteries with a capacity greater than 160 Wh are prohibited on regular passenger aircraft. However, the terms may vary depending on the applicable regulations.
5. Inform the crew immediately if the device overheats
If the power bank, mobile phone or laptop starts smoking or gets unusually hot, inform the cabin crew immediately. Do not attempt to open the device yourself, remove a burning battery, or move the seat to remove a phone stuck in the seat. Follow crew instructions.