Recently, a small fire broke out on an IndiGo flight flying from Delhi to Dimapur. After the investigation, it was found that the fire on the IndiGo flight was caused by a passenger’s power bank. Following this, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has begun reviewing existing rules regarding the use of power banks on flights. Scroll down to know more about the incident.
DGCA To Review Rules For Carrying Power Bank In Flights
On October 19, an IndiGo flight from Delhi to Dimapur experienced a small fire while taxiing at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. The fire erupted due to a passenger’s power bank that was kept in the seat’s back pocket. Following this incident, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is now reviewing rules for carrying and using power banks on flights.
This move comes amid rising safety concerns over lithium battery-powered devices, which can overheat or catch fire if not handled properly. The review will focus on how passengers use these devices and how airlines can better manage them to prevent such incidents in the future.
As part of the review, the DGCA may introduce stricter rules, such as limiting the battery capacity of power banks, restricting their use during flights, or even banning them altogether if the risks cannot be controlled. The authorities aim to improve passenger safety and ensure consistent safety measures across all airlines.
Airlines That Have Banned Use Of Power Banks
Previously, many airlines have banned power banks. Emirates Airlines recently banned power banks above 100 watt-hours and prohibited their use or charging onboard. According to NDTV, Singapore Airlines also introduced rules earlier this year, stopping passengers from charging or using power banks during flights.
Other airlines like Cathay Pacific and Qatar Airways, have also imposed similar restrictions. These new precautions are aimed at making air travel safer and reducing the chances of similar incidents in the future.
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Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ Vitalii Petrushenko