NEW DELHI: In a major move to enhance passenger safety, India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has imposed a strict ban on the use and charging of power banks during flights. The new safety advisory aims to mitigate fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries in the cabin.
Key Highlights of the New Rules:
- No In-Flight Usage: Passengers are strictly prohibited from using power banks to charge mobile phones, tablets, or any other electronic devices while the aircraft is in the air.
- Charging Ban: Charging power banks using the aircraft’s in-seat power supply or USB ports is now completely forbidden.
- Carry-on Only: Power banks and spare lithium batteries must be carried exclusively in hand luggage. Carrying them in checked-in baggage remains strictly prohibited as it poses a significant fire hazard in the cargo hold.
- Storage Restrictions: The DGCA has advised against storing power banks in overhead bins. Passengers are encouraged to keep them in their personal bags under the seat or within reach to ensure immediate detection in case of overheating.
Why the Sudden Ban?
The decision follows several global and domestic incidents where lithium batteries entered a state of “thermal runaway,” leading to smoke and fire mid-flight. Most recently, an incident on an IndiGo flight sparked concerns, prompting the regulator to align Indian aviation rules with international carriers like Emirates and Singapore Airlines.
Aviation experts note that fires in overhead bins or cargo holds are harder to detect and extinguish quickly. By keeping devices accessible and unused, the crew can respond immediately if a device begins to emit heat or smoke.
Safety Advisory for Passengers: The DGCA has directed airlines to make mandatory announcements regarding these rules. Travelers are requested to inform the cabin crew immediately if they notice any unusual odor, smoke, or excessive heating from their devices or power banks.
