DGCA Bans MOBIKINS Powerbank on Flights After Fire Incident

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has banned the MOBIKINS MK-PB-04 powerbank from all passenger and cargo flights to, from and within India following a fire incident aboard an IndiGo flight operating from Delhi to Chennai. The aircraft was diverted to Hyderabad on Sunday after the incident, raising safety concerns over lithium-ion batteries on board aircraft. The aviation regulator has directed airlines to ensure that the specified powerbank is neither carried nor transported on flights and to inform passengers about the restriction.

The DGCA has also reiterated existing safety rules governing powerbanks and spare batteries. Under its guidelines, passengers are permitted to carry these devices only in hand baggage, and they must not be stored in overhead compartments. Using powerbanks to charge mobile phones or other electronic devices during flights, including through aircraft seat power outlets, is also prohibited. Airlines have been instructed to train cabin crew to identify and respond to battery fires and promptly report lithium battery-related incidents to the regulator.

Powerbanks can pose serious risks during air travel because lithium-ion batteries may overheat and catch fire if damaged, faulty or mishandled. Previous incidents have highlighted these dangers, including a powerbank fire aboard an IndiGo aircraft at Chandigarh airport in May that led to the evacuation of more than 200 passengers, with several sustaining injuries. Passengers are advised to check their powerbank model numbers before travelling and avoid carrying the banned MOBIKINS MK-PB-04 device on any flight to, from or within India.

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