Know these 5 important rules before carrying a power bank on a flight; a small mistake could prove costly..

An IndiGo flight traveling from Delhi to Chennai had to be diverted to Hyderabad on October 11 after smoke was spotted on board. Reports indicated that the smoke originated from a passenger's electronic device on flight 6E 6115; however, IndiGo did not confirm whether the device was specifically a power bank. The aircraft landed safely at Hyderabad's Rajiv Gandhi International Airport. This incident raises the question: is it unsafe to carry power banks on flights, and what precautions should be taken?

Why can lithium batteries catch fire?
Power banks contain lithium-ion batteries. These batteries can heat up rapidly due to malfunctions or short circuits—a process known as "thermal runaway"—potentially releasing smoke, fire, and harmful gases. In the case of the IndiGo flight, the situation was brought under control, and the aircraft landed safely. This incident highlights the importance of exercising caution when using electronic devices during air travel.

Important points to remember:
1. Do not pack power banks in check-in luggage
Power banks and lithium batteries are not permitted in check-in baggage. They should be carried in cabin baggage so that the crew can take immediate action if necessary. According to IndiGo's regulations, a power bank must remain within the passenger's reach; storing it in the overhead bin is not allowed. If your bag is being moved to the aircraft's cargo hold during boarding, ensure you remove the power bank first.

2. Do not charge your phone using a power bank during the flight
Carrying a power bank on board does not mean you are permitted to use it to charge your phone during the flight. IndiGo's baggage policy prohibits the use of power banks to charge other electronic devices while on board. Always check the airline's latest regulations before traveling. 

3. Do not carry a damaged or swollen power bank
Do not take a power bank on the flight if its casing is swollen, cracked, or damaged due to a fall. Excessive heating during use, a burning smell, or unusual noises can also indicate a malfunction.

4. Battery capacity and regulations
Generally, batteries with a capacity of up to 100 Watt-hours (Wh) are permitted in cabin baggage. Airline approval may be required for batteries between 100 Wh and 160 Wh, while batteries exceeding 160 Wh are prohibited on standard passenger aircraft. However, conditions may vary depending on applicable regulations.

5. Inform the crew immediately if the device overheats
If smoke starts coming from the power bank, mobile phone, or laptop, or if it becomes abnormally hot, inform the cabin crew immediately. Do not attempt to open the device yourself, pick up a burning battery, or move the seat to retrieve a phone stuck within it. Follow the crew's instructions.

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