The Government of India has issued a reminder to all passengers and airlines across the country regarding the rules for carrying power banks during air travel. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) have confirmed that power banks are not allowed in checked-in luggage due to the potential fire hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries.
The clarification comes after several incidents involving electronic devices catching fire inside luggage compartments on international flights. Authorities have emphasized that lithium-ion batteries, commonly used in power banks, smartphones, and laptops, can overheat or short-circuit under certain conditions. Such events can lead to smoke or even fire during flight, posing a significant threat to passenger safety.
According to the DGCA’s official circular, power banks and spare lithium batteries must be carried in cabin baggage only. This is because, in case of an emergency such as overheating or smoke emission, the cabin crew can immediately respond and contain the situation using fire extinguishers or other onboard safety equipment. In contrast, luggage stored in the aircraft hold is inaccessible during flight, making it impossible to address a fire risk midair.
The advisory also highlights that airlines must conduct strict security checks at airports to ensure compliance. Any power bank detected in checked baggage will be removed before boarding. Passengers are being urged to cooperate with security personnel and avoid packing any rechargeable battery-powered devices in the cargo hold.
What Passengers Need to Know
- Power banks are only allowed in hand luggage.
- They must be switched off and protected against short-circuiting by covering terminals.
- Capacity limits: Power banks up to 100Wh (Watt-hours) can be carried without airline approval. Devices above this limit require explicit consent from the carrier.
- It is advised to check individual airline policies before traveling, as rules may vary slightly for international flights.
Airlines such as Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Vistara have already updated their safety protocols, displaying reminders during the check-in and boarding process. Airport security units are also reinforcing these rules through announcements and signage across major Indian airports.
A senior DGCA official said, “This measure is not new but a necessary reminder. With the growing use of power banks and rechargeable devices, passengers often overlook safety norms. We want to prevent any potential risk well before it happens.”
Experts note that lithium battery safety has been a major concern worldwide, prompting similar restrictions in the United States, European Union, and several Asian countries. In 2016, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) also issued global guidelines restricting lithium battery transport in checked baggage.
As India’s aviation sector continues to expand rapidly, ensuring safety through awareness and compliance remains a top priority for regulators. Passengers are encouraged to stay informed and pack responsibly before their journeys.
