DGCA Restricts Power Bank Use Mid-Air Amid Battery Fire Concerns

In a move aimed at enhancing passenger safety, India’s aviation watchdog, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has barred passengers from using power banks to charge electronic devices during flights, citing growing concerns over the risk of onboard fires.

What Passengers Can And Cannot Do

Under the revised rules, passengers may carry power banks only in their hand baggage, but using them to charge any device during the flight is not allowed. Power banks are barred from checked-in bags and should not be placed in overhead bins, as this can delay detection if a device overheats.

The move follows an increase in incidents linked to lithium-ion battery malfunctions, which can result in sudden overheating, smoke, or fires. Such incidents pose serious risks inside aircraft cabins, where space is limited and fire suppression can be challenging.

Airline Responsibilities

Airlines have been directed to clearly communicate the restrictions to passengers through announcements before departure and during the flight. Crew members are expected to remain alert and respond swiftly to any warning signs involving electronic devices. Airport operators are expected to support the effort by displaying safety advisories at check-in counters, boarding gates, and other passenger touchpoints.

Passengers have been urged to immediately notify cabin crew if a power bank or electronic gadget feels excessively hot, releases smoke, or emits an unusual odour, enabling quick intervention.

The DGCA has also asked airlines to review emergency procedures and ensure crew members are properly trained to manage battery-related fire hazards. This includes early detection and appropriate firefighting measures.

Aligning With Global Safety Standards

The DGCA’s advisory brings India in step with international aviation safety practices, as regulators and airlines across the world tighten controls on the carriage and use of lithium battery-powered devices. With multiple global carriers already restricting in-flight use of power banks following battery-related fire incidents, the move reflects a wider industry effort to reduce onboard fire risks.

At the same time, it highlights the challenge aviation authorities face in balancing passenger convenience and connectivity with the overriding need to ensure flight safety in an era of growing reliance on portable electronics.

(With inputs from PTI.)

FAQs

Can passengers still carry power banks on flights?
Yes. Power banks are allowed only in cabin baggage. They are not permitted in checked-in luggage.

Is it allowed to use a power bank during the flight?
No. Passengers are not allowed to use power banks to charge any electronic devices while onboard.

Where should power banks be stored during the flight?
Power banks should be kept with the passenger and must not be placed in overhead bins, where overheating or fire may go unnoticed.

Why has the DGCA introduced this restriction?
The rule has been introduced due to fire safety concerns linked to lithium-ion batteries, which can overheat, emit smoke, or catch fire in rare but serious incidents.

What should passengers do if a power bank overheats or emits smoke?
Passengers should immediately inform the cabin crew, who are trained to handle such situations and prevent escalation.