- By Soumyaroop Mukherjee
- Sun, 04 Jan 2026 06:29 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has introduced a new rule banning the charging of portable electronic devices during flights. The regulation also prohibits passengers from charging power banks by plugging them into aircraft seat power supply systems. Currently, power banks and batteries are only permitted in hand luggage. But after the new rule, passengers will no longer be permitted to take power banks and batteries in overhead bins.
Why Are Lithium Batteries Being Banned?
Lithium batteries are being banned because they pose a significant fire risk. They can overheat, short-circuit or catch fire if damaged, improperly handled or exposed to high temperatures. Such incidents are especially dangerous in enclosed spaces like aircraft cabins, where fires can spread rapidly and are difficult to control, prompting aviation authorities to impose strict restrictions.
"The widespread usage of lithium batteries in various rechargeable devices has led to an increase in carriage of lithium batteries by air. Power banks, portable chargers, and similar devices containing lithium batteries can act as ignition sources and potentially initiate onboard fires," the DGCA circular said.
The government regulator cautioned that storing lithium batteries on an aircraft could increase the risk, noting that when kept in overhead bins or carry-on luggage, they may be hidden, difficult to access, and not easily monitored by passengers or crew, which could delay the detection of smoke or fire and slow response, thereby heightening the potential threat to flight safety.
Airlines Directed To Enhance Crew Training
The advisory also instructed airlines on the importance of improved crew preparedness. Cabin crew are required to be trained to identify early warning signs such as overheating, smoke or flames from electronic devices, operate appropriate firefighting equipment, and understand the dangers posed by smoke inhalation. Airlines have been told to ensure that firefighting tools and protective gear on board are sufficient and easily accessible.
Additionally, airlines have been asked to inform travellers about the revised safety norms through in-flight announcements, with an emphasis on prompt reporting and response. Passengers, on the other hand, must "immediately inform the cabin crew if any device emits heat, smoke or an unusual odour". The airlines have been told to "promptly report all safety issues and occurrences related to lithium battery incidents to DGCA".