Monday, January 5, 2026 | DUBAI | Posted Time: 5:34 am
The DGCA power bank ban India has introduced strict new regulations to ensure the safety of passengers and aircraft. Following several reports of lithium battery-related fires, India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), issued a comprehensive circular. Actually, the Times of India reported that these new rules are designed to prevent fire hazards caused by portable electronic devices during air travel.
What are the New Rules for Passengers?
According to the DGCA power bank ban India guidelines, passengers are now strictly prohibited from charging their mobile phones or other devices using power banks while the aircraft is in flight. Furthermore, the Times of India highlights that power banks and spare batteries must only be carried in hand luggage. They are no longer allowed to be stored in overhead compartments (lockers) or checked-in baggage. Additionally, charging the power bank itself using the aircraft’s in-seat power supply is also banned.
Why the DGCA and Times of India are Highlighting These Risks
The primary reason for the DGCA power bank ban India is the volatility of lithium-ion batteries. When these batteries overheat, they can cause a “thermal runaway,” leading to smoke or fire. Recently, an Indigo flight from Delhi to Dimapur faced an emergency when a passenger’s power bank caught fire in a seat-back pocket. Fortunately, the cabin crew was able to control the fire, but it highlighted a major safety gap.
Consequently, the DGCA now requires all airlines to report battery-related incidents immediately. Moreover, this regulation brings India in line with international carriers like Emirates and Singapore Airlines, which already have similar protocols. By implementing these rules, the DGCA aims to minimize the risk of fire in confined spaces like an aircraft cabin.
Young Indian Boy Mimics Brett Lee; 8-Year-Old’s Perfect Bowling Action Goes Viral
Guidelines for Indian Airports and Travelers
The DGCA power bank ban India also places new responsibilities on airport operators. As per the report by the Times of India, airports must now educate the public about these risks. Security messages and videos must be clearly displayed at:
- Terminal entry gates and check-in counters.
- Security checkpoints and boarding gates.
Actually, airlines are encouraged to make pre-flight announcements to inform passengers about the ban on using power banks. In addition, if you notice your device getting unusually hot or emitting a strange smell, you must alert the cabin crew immediately. Therefore, staying informed about these rules is essential for every traveler in 2026.
Key Highlights of the New Safety Rules:
- DGCA power bank ban India on using portable chargers during the entire duration of the flight.
- Power banks must be kept in hand luggage; storage in overhead lockers is strictly prohibited.
- Passengers are banned from plugging power banks into the aircraft’s USB or power ports.
- The Times of India reports that these rules are a response to multiple lithium battery fire incidents.
- Airports will display safety videos to warn passengers about battery-related fire risks.
- Cabin crew are now trained with specific protocols to extinguish lithium-ion battery fires.
ALSO READ: Dubai Police Seize Supercar: Huge Fine for Driver After Viral Fire Stunt Video
The Rock vs Roman Reigns: The Greatest Dream Match WrestleMania 43 Lands in the Middle East
FAQs
Q: Did the Times of India report on the power bank ban? A: Yes, the Times of India reported that the DGCA has banned the use of power banks and their storage in overhead lockers on Indian flights.
Q: Can I still bring my power bank on a flight to India? A: Yes, but it must be in your hand luggage. Under the DGCA power bank ban India, you cannot use it to charge your phone while flying.
Q: Why can’t I keep my power bank in the overhead locker? A: If a battery catches fire in a locker, it is harder to detect. Keeping it near you in your hand luggage allows for a faster response from the crew.
Q: Can I charge my phone using the plane’s built-in USB port? A: Yes, charging your phone directly is allowed, but you cannot plug your power bank into that port to charge it.
Conclusion and Travel Advice
The DGCA power bank ban India is a necessary step for the safety of millions of air travelers. Actually, safety experts agree that preventing a fire is much easier than fighting one at 35,000 feet. Thus, ensure your devices are fully charged before you head to the airport. In addition, always invest in high-quality, certified power banks to reduce the risk of overheating.
In conclusion, for the latest and most transparent news on UAE and Indian travel, keep following UAECentre. By adhering to these new guidelines, you help ensure a safe journey for yourself and your fellow passengers. Finally, always double-check your luggage before you fly to avoid any safety violations.
ALSO READ: Important Update: Detailed New Parking Fees for International City Dubai
