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DGCA Weighs New Curbs on Power Banks After IndiGo Onboard Fire

India’s aviation regulator is assessing technical guidance following a cabin incident linked to a passenger power bank in Delhi.

Overview

  • Officials say the DGCA has taken up the issue and is reviewing inputs that could lead to restrictions on carrying or using power banks in flight.
  • Current Indian rules still allow power banks up to 100 watt-hours, roughly 27,000 mAh, only in cabin baggage and not in checked bags.
  • A passenger’s power bank caught fire as an IndiGo aircraft taxied at Delhi, and a separate Air China flight recently diverted to Shanghai after a lithium-battery fire.
  • Several international airlines have already tightened rules, with Emirates from Oct. 1 allowing one power bank under 100 Wh but prohibiting in‑flight use or charging.
  • Singapore Airlines bars charging power banks via onboard USB ports, and some carriers require power banks to be kept in seat pockets or under-seat bags rather than overhead bins.