Passengers flying from the UAE to India should take note of new aviation safety rules introduced by India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The regulator has banned the use of power banks during flights, citing fire risks linked to lithium battery-powered devices.
Under the updated rules, passengers are not allowed to use power banks to charge phones, tablets, laptops or any other devices while on board. Charging power banks using in-seat power outlets is also prohibited for the entire duration of the flight.
Power banks and spare lithium batteries are permitted only in hand luggage and must not be placed in checked baggage or overhead bins. Instead, they should remain with the passenger, preferably under the seat. The decision follows multiple global incidents where lithium batteries overheated or caught fire mid-flight.
UAE airlines such as Emirates and flydubai had already implemented similar restrictions for India-bound passengers. Travellers are allowed to carry one power bank with a capacity of up to 100 Wh, but onboard usage remains strictly prohibited.
The DGCA has also issued instructions to airlines to enhance safety awareness through announcements and onboard messaging, conduct updated risk assessments, and ensure cabin crew are trained to detect early warning signs of battery-related hazards. Airports across India have been directed to display safety advisories at check-in counters, security areas and boarding gates.
Passengers are advised to immediately inform cabin crew if any electronic device feels unusually hot, emits smoke, or produces an unfamiliar smell during the flight.
