IndiGo flight evacuated in Chandigarh after power bank fire: What DGCA’s ‘new’ rules say

An IndiGo flight at Chandigarh airport was evacuated after a power bank reportedly caught fire inside the aircraft, causing panic among passengers. The incident took place after the flight, arriving from Hyderabad, had already landed and was parked for passengers to get off. Smoke filled the cabin following the fire, leading to chaos onboard. According to airport officials, six passengers were injured and taken to hospital, while others were safely evacuated. The incident has once again raised concerns about the safety of carrying power banks on flights and brought attention to rules set by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for power banks. In a circular issued in January this year, the aviation body banned the use of power banks for charging on flights. Here’s what you need to know about DGCA rules on power bank

Are power banks allowed in flight

Yes, passengers are allowed to carry power banks in flight. However, the device must be carried in hand baggage only. DGCA strictly prohibits storing power banks in overhead compartments, as fires in overhead bins are difficult to detect. “Power banks and spare batteries shall not be placed in overhead bins and educate passengers in the prevention of short-circuiting, such as storing lithium batteries in plastic bags, taping and covering terminals, or keeping lithium batteries in protective cases,” DGCA said in a circular.

Can I charge my smartphone using power bank on flight

No. In a statement earlier this year, the regulator said power banks cannot be used for charging gadgets at any time during a flight, including through aircraft seat power outlets.“Whenever the DGCA issues guidelines or rules, it keeps the safety of the people and the aircraft in mind. Whatever it does, it does thorough research and thorough consultation, and most of it comes from the International Civil Aviation Organisation, which is consulting with stakeholders across the world,” Civil Aviation minister K Ram Moahn Naidu then said.

Here’s what DGCA guidelines on in-flight power bank usage says

The DGCA guidelines stated that airlines should broadcast cabin announcements instructing passengers to: