The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued an important safety clarification regarding the use of power banks on commercial flights in India. The decision has been taken in the interest of passenger safety, following global concerns over lithium-ion battery fire risks during air travel.
This update has caused confusion on social media, especially viral claims suggesting that power banks are completely banned on flights. In reality, the DGCA has restricted usage, not possession, and passengers must clearly understand the new rules before flying.
Official Announcement Date and Reference
- Official circular clarification date: 5 January 2026
- Original advisory issued: November 2025
- Issuing authority: Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Government of India
- Official website: https://www.dgca.gov.in
The clarification was issued under DGCA’s Dangerous Goods Regulations, which govern the carriage of lithium batteries and electronic items on aircraft.
What the DGCA Rule Says
According to the DGCA’s official safety circular:
- Power banks are NOT banned on flights
- Using power banks during the flight is NOT permitted
- Charging any device using a power bank onboard is prohibited
- Power banks must be carried only in hand baggage
- Power banks are strictly not allowed in checked-in luggage
This means passengers can carry power banks with them, but cannot use them once onboard the aircraft.
Why DGCA Took This Decision
The decision was taken due to increasing global incidents involving lithium-ion battery overheating, smoke, and fire hazards. Power banks contain high-energy lithium cells, which can:
- Overheat due to manufacturing defects or physical damage
- Short-circuit when connected improperly
- Catch fire without warning in enclosed aircraft cabins
In an aircraft environment, even a small battery fire can become dangerous within seconds. Restricting in-flight usage allows cabin crew to minimize fire risk and respond faster to emergencies.
Hand Baggage Rules for Power Banks
The DGCA has clearly stated that:
- Power banks must be carried only in cabin baggage
- Storing power banks in checked baggage is prohibited
- Passengers are advised not to place power banks in overhead bins
- Power banks should remain accessible and visible during the flight
These rules ensure early detection if overheating occurs.
Battery Capacity Limits (As Per Aviation Safety Norms)
While the January 2026 clarification focused on usage, existing limits remain valid:
- Up to 100 Wh (≈ 27,000 mAh): Allowed without airline approval
- 100–160 Wh: Allowed only with airline permission
- Above 160 Wh: Not permitted on passenger aircraft
Airlines may verify capacity markings during security checks.
Instructions for Airlines and Cabin Crew
DGCA has instructed airlines to:
- Inform passengers about power bank restrictions during boarding announcements
- Monitor compliance during flights
- Ensure crew training for lithium battery fire handling
- Display safety advisories at airports and boarding gates
Failure to follow DGCA safety directives may lead to penalties for airlines.
What Passengers Should Do Before Flying
Passengers are advised to:
- Fully charge phones and devices before boarding
- Carry only certified and undamaged power banks
- Avoid using power banks onboard
- Immediately inform cabin crew if a device overheats or emits smoke
Following these steps helps ensure safe and smooth air travel.
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Conclusion: The DGCA’s January 2026 clarification does not ban power banks, but clearly prohibits their usage during flights to prevent potential fire hazards. Power banks remain allowed in hand luggage only, in line with international aviation safety practices.
Passengers are strongly advised to rely only on official DGCA updates published on www.dgca.gov.in and avoid misleading social media claims.
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