DGCA Bans MOBIKINS Powerbank Model on Flights After Fire Incident on IndiGo Aircraft

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has banned the MOBIKINS MK-PB-04 powerbank on all flights operating to, from and within India after a fire incident involving the device aboard an IndiGo aircraft.

The restriction covers both passenger baggage and cargo, with airlines directed to prevent the specific model from being carried on board. The move followed an IndiGo flight travelling from Delhi to Chennai being diverted to Hyderabad on Sunday after a fire linked to the powerbank.

Airlines Told to Enforce Immediate Ban

DGCA chief Vir Vikram Yadav directed airlines to identify the affected powerbank model and ensure it is not brought on board or transported as cargo. Airlines have also been instructed to inform passengers about the restriction through appropriate channels.

The ban applies specifically to the MOBIKINS MK-PB-04. It is not a blanket prohibition on all powerbanks, but passengers have been advised to check their device’s model number before travelling.

DGCA Tightens Rules on Powerbanks During Flights

The latest directive comes amid existing aviation safety rules governing lithium-ion batteries and portable powerbanks. Under DGCA guidelines, powerbanks and spare batteries must be carried in hand baggage and cannot be placed in overhead compartments.

Passengers are also prohibited from using powerbanks to charge mobile phones or other electronic devices during flights, including by connecting them to aircraft seat power outlets.

Airlines must inform passengers about these requirements, train cabin crew to handle battery-related emergencies and report incidents involving lithium-battery fires or malfunctions to the regulator.

Passengers Must Report Overheating Devices

Passengers have been instructed to alert cabin crew immediately if an electronic device becomes unusually hot, emits smoke or produces an unusual smell during a flight.

Lithium-ion batteries power a wide range of portable electronic devices, but damaged or defective batteries can overheat and catch fire. Such incidents pose particular risks aboard aircraft, where smoke can spread quickly and access to the affected device may be restricted.

Passengers travelling by air are advised to check their powerbank model and follow the applicable airline safety rules before boarding.