Video: Power bank catches fire on flight, emergency landing executed; here is what you need to know

A recent incident involving a power bank catching fire inside an IndiGo flight has sparked serious discussions about electronic device safety during air travel. The viral video of the incident has caused widespread concern among passengers. Fortunately, a safe emergency landing was executed and all passengers remained unhurt, but the event highlights critical safety protocols.

Power banks pack a significant amount of energy in a compact size, typically using lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries. While safe under normal conditions, damage, overheating, or short-circuiting can lead to severe hazards.

Understanding Thermal Runaway and Battery Risks

The primary reason behind sudden battery fires is 'thermal runaway,' where internal heat generation triggers a runaway chemical reaction. This causes the battery to swell, emit smoke, and eventually catch fire. Purchasing certified and high-quality electronic devices from trusted manufacturers drastically reduces these risks.

Safety Guidelines for Charging and Storage

• Always use original or certified chargers and cables specified by the manufacturer.
• Never charge power banks on beds, pillows, or enclosed spaces where heat gets trapped.
• Discard swollen, dropped, or damaged power banks immediately and safely through e-waste channels.
• Avoid keeping power banks loose in bags alongside metallic items like keys and coins to prevent short circuits.

Air Travel Safety Rules

Airlines strictly mandate that power banks must be carried in cabin baggage rather than checked luggage. This ensures immediate accessibility and faster response by the cabin crew in case of smoke or fire emergencies.