DGCA plans new rules on power banks to boost in-flight safety | Fusion - WeRIndia

In recent months, several incidents of smoke and fire inside aircraft cabins have raised serious safety concerns.

Consequently, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is preparing new guidelines on carrying power banks during air travel.

The move comes after multiple cases of lithium-ion battery malfunctions were reported onboard Indian and international flights.

Recently, a passenger’s device caught fire on an IndiGo flight at Delhi airport while the aircraft was taxiing.

In another case, smoke from a power bank was detected on a Dimapur-bound IndiGo flight.

Similar global incidents, including an Air China flight diversion due to a battery issue, have intensified the need for stricter norms.

Globally, many airlines have already tightened their rules to reduce battery-related risks.

For instance, Emirates, since October 1, has prohibited passengers from using or charging power banks during flights.

The airline allows only one unit under 100 watt-hours (Wh), which must stay switched off throughout the journey.

Similarly, Singapore Airlines has limited in-flight charging and requires passengers to store power banks in seat pockets or under-seat luggage, not in overhead bins.

In India, DGCA is closely reviewing such international practices before finalising its own safety standards.

According to officials involved, the upcoming guidelines may include clear limits on the number of power banks each passenger can carry.

Moreover, passengers might need to ensure that capacity ratings are clearly visible on the device.

The regulator is also considering instructions on where power banks should be placed during a flight.

Additionally, DGCA may restrict or completely ban the use and charging of these devices onboard.

These new rules will aim to balance safety and convenience, given travellers’ heavy dependence on electronic gadgets.

Once finalised, the guidelines will likely apply to all domestic and international flights operating in India.

Ultimately, the DGCA’s initiative seeks to prevent hazardous battery incidents, ensuring safer skies for passengers and crew, without significantly disrupting travel comfort.

Image from Pxhere (Free for commercial use / CC0 Public Domain)

Image Published on February 24, 2017

Image Reference: https://pxhere.com/en/photo/836983