India has tightened aviation safety norms with a new ban on the in-flight use of power banks and lithium battery-powered accessories — a move that directly affects travellers flying from the UAE to Indian destinations.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has ruled that power banks may not be used at any point during a flight. Passengers are also prohibited from charging power banks using aircraft power outlets. While travellers can still carry power banks, they must remain in cabin baggage and cannot be stored in overhead bins or checked-in luggage.
The rule has been introduced following a rise in global incidents involving lithium battery fires on aircraft. Devices stored out of sight — such as in overhead bins or bags — pose a higher risk, as smoke or overheating may go unnoticed until it escalates.
UAE carriers including Emirates and flydubai already enforce similar guidelines for India-bound flights. Travellers may carry a power bank of up to 100 Wh, but it must stay under the seat and unused throughout the journey.
India’s aviation authority has also placed responsibility on airlines and airports to raise passenger awareness. This includes visible safety signage, onboard announcements, trained cabin crew, and ready access to firefighting equipment.
The decision aligns India with international aviation safety standards followed by global airlines, prioritising passenger safety over convenience as reliance on portable electronics continues to grow.
