No in-flight charging using power banks: DGCA issues guidelines after battery overheating incidents

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• DGCA bans use of power banks for charging devices during flights
• Power banks allowed only in hand baggage, not in overhead compartments
• Airlines must train crew and inform passengers on new lithium battery regulations.

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The Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Sunday said that the use of power banks for charging phones or other gadgets during flights is banned.

The rules also say that the power banks will not be used for charging phones or any other gadgets, including through aircraft seat power outlets. Theadvisory came after several incidents of lithium batteries overheating or catching fire, around the world.

The DGCA had, in November, issued a ‘Dangerous Goods Advisory Circular’ saying that power banks and spare batteries will only be allowed in hand baggage and cannot be stored in overhead compartments. This rule was made because any fires that occur in ov erhead cabin are not easily detected, reports said.

"The widespread usage of lithium batteries in various rechargeable devices has led to an increase in carriage of lithium batteries by air. Power banks, portable chargers, and similar devices containing lithium batteries can act as ignition sources and potentially initiate on-board fires," the circular said.

"Lithium batteries placed in overhead stowage bins or within carry-on baggage may be obscured, difficult to access, or not readily monitored by passengers or crew members. This may result in delayed detection of smoke or fire and response actions, increasing the potential hazard to flight safety," it added.

The DGCA has told the airlines to review existing safety risk assessments in relation with lithium batteries that passengers carry with them. They have been asked to enforce stronger measures so that battery-related fires can be prevented.

The aviation regulator has also emphasised the need for better training for all crew members so that the crew can safety recognise fires early and appropriate action can be taken. Airlines have also been asked to keep firefighting equipment and protective gear on board. Further, airlines have also been directed to inform the passengers of new rules through announcements.