Overview
- Using power banks to charge devices on board, including via seat power outlets, is now prohibited under DGCA guidance.
- Power banks and spare lithium batteries must be carried only in hand baggage and kept out of overhead bins and checked luggage.
- Airlines have been told to update risk assessments, strengthen crew training for early detection and firefighting, make onboard announcements, and promptly report incidents.
- Airports have been asked to display clear safety messages on lithium battery risks and to discourage device charging before boarding.
- The measures follow recent power bank fire incidents on IndiGo in Delhi and on a Hangzhou–Seoul flight, as experts press for strict one-hand-bag enforcement to avoid batteries being moved to the hold.