The Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has stated that passengers are not permitted to use power banks to charge electronic devices while onboard flights. This restriction includes using power banks through aircraft seat power outlets, emphasizing safety risks associated with lithium batteries. Recent incidents globally involving overheating and fires from lithium batteries on aircraft have prompted this directive.
In November, the DGCA issued a Dangerous Goods Advisory Circular allowing power banks and spare lithium batteries only in hand baggage. These items are strictly prohibited from being stored in overhead compartments due to the challenges in detecting and controlling fires in such areas. The surge in passengers carrying power banks and spare batteries during air travel, driven by the prevalence of lithium batteries in devices, has raised concerns about potential ignition sources and fire risks onboard flights.
Lithium batteries stored in overhead bins or carry-on bags may not be easily visible, hindering early detection of smoke or fire by passengers or crew members. This lack of visibility could delay emergency responses and escalate risks during flights. Airlines are mandated by the DGCA to reassess safety risk evaluations concerning lithium batteries carried by passengers and implement enhanced safety protocols to prevent battery-related fire incidents.
To bolster safety measures, airlines are required to provide comprehensive training for cabin crew to promptly identify fire indicators and take necessary actions. Ensuring the availability of firefighting equipment and protective gear on all aircraft is also emphasized. Airlines must communicate the updated regulations to passengers effectively through in-flight announcements and other channels to enhance awareness and compliance. These measures are deemed crucial by the DGCA to enhance passenger safety and mitigate the hazards associated with lithium battery fires during air travel.
