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DGCA Flight Ban: Why Your Power Bank Is Now a Safety Risk

The DGCA has issued a strict new rule banning passengers from using power banks to charge devices during flights. This decision is a direct response to serious safety concerns linked to lithium batteries overheating. The regulator has instructed airlines to enforce stronger safety measures and improve crew training. Passengers must now keep power banks in their hand baggage and be aware of the updated safety protocols.

Key Points: DGCA Bans Using Power Banks to Charge Devices on Flights

  • DGCA bans all in-flight charging using personal power banks due to fire risks
  • Move follows global incidents of lithium batteries overheating on aircraft
  • Power banks must be in hand baggage, never in overhead compartments
  • Airlines ordered to review safety protocols and improve crew training
2 min read

DGCA bans use of power banks for charging devices during flights

DGCA bans charging devices with power banks during flights due to lithium battery fire risks. New safety rules for airlines and passengers explained.

DGCA bans use of power banks for charging devices during flights
"Power banks cannot be used for charging gadgets at any time during a flight. - Director General of Civil Aviation"

New Delhi, Jan 4

The Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Sunday clarified that passengers are not allowed to use power banks to charge mobile phones or any other electronic devices during flights, citing serious safety concerns linked to lithium batteries.

In a statement, the aviation regulator said power banks cannot be used for charging gadgets at any time during a flight, including through aircraft seat power outlets.

The move comes after several incidents worldwide in which lithium batteries overheated or caught fire on board aircraft.

The Director General of Civil Aviation had earlier, in November, issued a Dangerous Goods Advisory Circular that allowed power banks and spare lithium batteries only in hand baggage. These items are strictly prohibited from being stored in overhead compartments, as fires in overhead bins are difficult to detect and control.

According to the advisory, the increasing use of lithium batteries in rechargeable devices has led to a sharp rise in passengers carrying power banks and spare batteries during air travel. The DGCA warned that such devices can act as ignition sources and may trigger fires on board, posing a serious risk to flight safety.

The regulator explained that lithium batteries kept in overhead stowage bins or inside carry-on bags may remain hidden from view, making it harder for passengers or crew members to notice early signs of smoke or fire. This can delay emergency response and increase the danger during a flight.

The DGCA has directed all airlines to review their existing safety risk assessments related to lithium batteries carried by passengers. Airlines have been asked to strictly enforce stronger safety measures to prevent battery-related fire incidents.

The aviation watchdog has also stressed the importance of improved training for cabin crew so they can quickly identify signs of fire and take appropriate action. Airlines have been instructed to ensure that adequate firefighting equipment and protective gear are available on board all aircraft.

In addition, airlines have been told to clearly inform passengers about the updated rules through in-flight announcements and other communication channels to ensure awareness and compliance.

The DGCA said these steps are necessary to strengthen passenger safety and reduce the risks associated with lithium battery fires during air travel.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
This is going to be a major inconvenience on long flights like Delhi to San Francisco. What are we supposed to do if our phone dies? Airlines should provide charging facilities if they're taking away our power banks.
A
Aman W
Good move by DGCA. I've seen people using cheap, unbranded power banks that get really hot. In a pressurized cabin, that's asking for trouble. Hope airlines enforce this strictly at all airports.
S
Sarah B
As a frequent flyer, I appreciate the clarity. The previous rules were confusing. Now it's simple - no charging from power banks in flight. Safety protocols need to be updated with technology.
V
Vikram M
While I understand the safety concern, the implementation will be key. Will flight attendants actually stop people? On my last flight, people were still using phones during takeoff despite announcements.
K
Kavya N
Makes sense. Lithium battery fires are no joke. Remember the Samsung Note incidents? Now imagine that at 30,000 feet. Better to be bored on a flight than to be in danger. 📵
M
Michael C
I respect the safety decision, but I hope this pushes Indian airlines to upgrade their in-flight entertainment systems. On some domestic flights, the only entertainment is your own device.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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