Passengers onboard an IndiGo flight from Vadodara to Delhi reportedly faced an uncomfortable ordeal after a sudden power failure left the aircraft without lights or air-conditioning during boarding.

The incident occurred on IndiGo flight 6E657 while the aircraft was stationed on the tarmac at Vadodara Airport before departure.

Cabin left dark during boarding

According to reports, the aircraft’s Ground Power Unit (GPU) malfunctioned shortly before take-off preparations began.

The GPU is an external power source used while aircraft engines remain switched off and helps operate cabin lighting, cooling systems, and essential onboard electrical functions.

After the malfunction, passengers were reportedly left sitting inside a dark and poorly ventilated cabin for nearly 30 minutes between 8.40 pm and 9.15 pm.

Videos circulating on social media showed passengers using newspapers, files, and papers to fan themselves amid the heat inside the aircraft.

Viral videos trigger concern online

The visuals quickly went viral online, prompting discussions about passenger comfort and safety during technical failures.

Several users questioned why passengers remained onboard despite the power outage and lack of air-conditioning during extreme weather conditions.

Airport sources later clarified that the incident was not an in-flight emergency and occurred entirely while the aircraft was on the ground during boarding procedures.

Flight departs after repairs

Technicians were reportedly rushed to the aircraft soon after the malfunction was detected.

After repair work was completed, power was restored and the aircraft’s systems gradually resumed normal functioning.

The flight eventually departed for Delhi at around 10 pm, according to reports.

Officials stated that technical glitches involving airport ground equipment are uncommon but can lead to significant inconvenience because aircraft depend on external power systems before engine start-up.

The incident has once again highlighted growing concerns among air travellers regarding passenger handling during unexpected technical disruptions.