DGCA Bans Use of Power Banks During Flights

 India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has introduced stricter safety guidelines restricting the use of power banks and other lithium battery-powered devices on aircraft. Under the new rules, passengers are no longer permitted to use power banks to charge mobile phones or electronic gadgets during a flight, including via seat-mounted power outlets.

The decision follows several global incidents involving lithium batteries overheating, emitting smoke, or catching fire mid-air. In a recent circular, the DGCA clarified that power banks and spare lithium batteries may only be carried in hand baggage and must not be placed in overhead storage compartments.

Highlighting the risks, the regulator noted that the growing reliance on rechargeable lithium batteries has significantly increased their presence on aircraft. Devices such as power banks and portable chargers can act as ignition sources and may trigger onboard fires if they malfunction.

The DGCA also cautioned that improper storage of these batteries can worsen safety hazards. Lithium batteries kept in overhead bins or packed inside carry-on luggage may be difficult to access or monitor, potentially delaying the detection of smoke or fire and increasing the risk to flight safety.

Reiterating the severity of such incidents, the circular stated that lithium battery fires are highly intense and can even lead to explosions of personal electronic devices. These fires may result from overheating, overcharging, physical damage, internal short circuits, poor manufacturing quality, or ageing batteries. Unlike conventional fires, lithium battery fires can sustain themselves and require specialised methods to control.

BY: Nirosha Gupta