NEW DELHI: Passengers will no longer be allowed to use power banks during flights, with the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) reiterating that inflight usage of portable power banks is prohibited due to safety concerns, official sources said.
While the restriction has been in place for some time, airlines have now begun making explicit announcements during boarding and inflight briefings to ensure compliance and prevent any mid-air safety risks.
Power banks contain lithium-ion batteries, which can pose serious fire hazards if damaged, overheated or malfunctioning. Aviation safety experts warn that even a small battery fire inside an aircraft cabin can escalate rapidly in the confined environment.
MoCA sources said the move reflects stricter enforcement of existing norms rather than the introduction of new rules, following incidents globally involving battery overheating and smoke inside aircraft cabins.
As per current aviation safety guidelines, power banks are permitted only in cabin baggage and are strictly prohibited in checked-in luggage. However, passengers are not allowed to charge devices using power banks during flights.
Several domestic airlines have started issuing verbal advisories, with cabin crew instructed to monitor compliance. Passengers found using power banks mid-air may be asked to switch them off immediately. MoCA clarified that the aim is prevention, not penalisation.
Travellers have been advised to fully charge their devices before boarding and use in-seat charging ports where available. Carrying power banks remains permitted, but their usage during flights is not.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation’s (DGCA) Dangerous Goods Advisory Circular No. 01/2025, issued on November 11, 2025, underscores the risks associated with lithium batteries, highlighting the potential for energetic, self-sustaining and explosive fires, especially if devices are stored in overhead bins.
The circular directs airlines to strengthen fire prevention measures, enhance crew training, ensure availability of emergency equipment, and boost passenger awareness through announcements and signage at airports and onboard aircraft.
