India’s aviation safety regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has introduced new safety rules that ban the use of power banks for charging phones or other devices during flights. Under the updated advisory, passengers may still carry power banks in their hand luggage, but they cannot charge devices with them while the plane is airborne. The move aims to reduce the risk of fire hazards linked to lithium-ion batteries, which are commonly found in portable chargers. 
What’s Happening
Recently, the DGCA updated its Dangerous Goods Advisory Circular, tightening safety requirements related to lithium batteries carried on flights. The new rules make it clear that power banks and spare lithium batteries cannot be used to charge devices during a flight, including through seat power outlets. This change comes after reports of lithium batteries overheating or catching fire — events that pose serious dangers inside a pressurized aircraft cabin.
Under the advisory:
- Power banks must be carried only in hand luggage — not in checked baggage.
- They cannot be stored in overhead compartments, where smoke or fire could go unnoticed.
- Charging devices with power banks during the flight is prohibited.
Who It Affects
These changes affect:
- Air passengers nationwide
- Travelers relying on power banks during long flights
- Frequent flyers who plug portable chargers into aircraft USB ports
FlipMyTravel users planning air travel — it’s important to know these rules before packing
Carrying a power bank is still permitted, but passengers should charge phones and tablets before departure or use aircraft seat power outlets where available. Airlines are now required to make in-flight announcements reminding passengers of the new rules and to help enforce compliance.
Where the Rule Applies
The ban on using power banks inflight applies to all domestic and international flights departing from or arriving in India. This includes both full-service and budget carriers, regardless of aircraft type. The DGCA’s directive requires all Indian airlines to train cabin crew and update safety briefings to ensure passengers know to follow these norms.
When It Came Into Effect
The DGCA’s advisory was issued in November 2025, but airlines have started enforcing the new safety rules from early January 2026. Cabin crews now regularly remind passengers not to use power banks for in-flight charging, and some airlines are adding this information to pre-flight announcements.
Official Context & Safety Concerns
The DGCA’s update followed concerns about lithium-ion battery fires — incidents that can begin from overheating, damage, or internal short circuits. Lithium battery fires are especially dangerous because they can be self-sustaining, release toxic gases, and are difficult to extinguish once started inside an aircraft. The Economic Times
The advisory stresses that power banks and spare lithium batteries should only be kept in hand luggage, where cabin crew can see and respond quickly if any issues arise. Airlines must now improve passenger communication and train staff to deal with possible battery-related incidents appropriately. Business Standard
Highlights – At a Glance
- Use of power banks for charging aboard flights is banned.
- Power banks must be carried in hand luggage only.
- No storage in overhead compartments.
- Airlines must announce and enforce this safety rule.
- Move aims to reduce fire risks from lithium batteries.
Activities – What Passengers Should Do
Pre-Flight Checklist
✔ Charge devices fully before boarding.
✔ Pack power banks in your hand luggage — keep them visible.
✔ Label or check watt-hour (Wh) ratings to ensure compliance.
On the Flight
✔ Do not use or charge power banks during the flight.
✔ Use seat power outlets (if provided) to charge devices.
✔ Follow cabin crew instructions regarding device safety.
Planning Ahead
✔ Check airline communications after booking; rules may vary by carrier.
✔ Inform fellow FlipMyTravel users about safety rules to avoid inconvenience.
India’s aviation regulator, the DGCA, has barred the use of power banks for charging devices during flights due to safety concerns linked to lithium-ion battery fire risks. Passengers may still carry power banks in hand luggage, but must not use them or store them in overhead bins. Airlines are enforcing the rule through announcements and cabin briefings to enhance flight safety.
