DGCA restricts use of power banks on flights over fire risks: All you need to know

DGCA tightens flight safety norms, banning the use of power banks onboard aircraft over rising lithium battery fire risks.

• Power banks can no longer be used onboard flights in India for charging devices
• Power banks must be carried only in hand luggage, not in overhead compartments
• Airlines and airports must inform passengers about lithium battery safety rules

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Air travellers in India will now face tighter rules on carrying and using power banks onboard aircraft, as the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) moves to curb rising fire risks linked to lithium batteries. The updated norms were issued through a ‘Dangerous Goods Advisory Circular’, aligning India with global aviation safety practices amid a spike in battery-related incidents worldwide.

Power banks banned from use during flights

Under the new guidelines, power banks can no longer be used to charge phones or other electronic devices during flights, including through aircraft seat power outlets. While passengers may still carry power banks, their usage onboard is now prohibited as a safety precaution.

Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said the decision is firmly rooted in passenger and flight safety.

"Whenever DGCA issues guidelines or rules, it keeps the safety of the people and the aircraft in mind. Whatever it does, it does thorough research, thorough consultation, and most of it comes from the International Civil Aviation Organisation, which is consulting with stakeholders across the world. So once they decide on a certain rule or regulation, it is important for us also to follow it so that we maintain that safety, and it is in that regard we are doing it," the minister told ANI.

Why lithium batteries are a concern

According to the DGCA circular, the growing dependence on rechargeable devices has significantly increased the number of lithium batteries carried on flights.

“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 advisory stated.

These batteries can overheat, short-circuit or ignite, posing serious risks in the confined environment of an aircraft cabin.

Where power banks can be carried

One of the most important changes for flyers relates to how power banks are stored:

• Power banks and spare lithium batteries are permitted only in hand luggage.
• They must not be placed in overhead compartments.

The DGCA explained the rationale clearly, "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.”

Passengers are also required to immediately alert cabin crew if any device emits heat, smoke or an unusual smell.

Airlines told to step up safety measures

The advisory places significant responsibility on airlines as well. Carriers must:

• Make in-flight announcements explaining the updated power bank rules.
• Promptly report any lithium battery-related safety incidents to the DGCA.
• Ensure cabin crew are trained to detect early warning signs such as overheating, smoke or flames.

Crew members must also be proficient in using onboard firefighting equipment and understand the risks associated with smoke inhalation. Airlines have been directed to ensure that protective gear and firefighting equipment are adequate and easily accessible.

Airports to display safety warnings

The DGCA has also asked airport operators to actively participate in passenger awareness. Airports have been instructed to display safety messages and videos on lithium battery fire risks at terminal entrances, check-in counters, security checkpoints, and boarding gates.

Airports are also encouraged to work closely with airlines to educate passengers on the safe handling of power banks, including discouraging last-minute charging just before boarding.

Global context and recent airline disruptions

The advisory follows a series of global incidents linked to lithium battery fires, reported through 2025. Before India’s move, China proposed strict new regulations for portable power banks, including mandatory labelling of battery type, production date and recommended safe usage period. Only power banks with China Compulsory Certification are currently allowed for sale there.

What flyers should remember

For travellers, the message is clear: carry power banks only in hand baggage, do not use them onboard, and report any unusual behaviour immediately. With lithium battery incidents emerging as a global aviation risk, the DGCA’s latest move aims to ensure safer skies—especially as air travel volumes continue to rise.