India's aviation regulator bans MOBIKINS power bank model on all flights

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has imposed a ban on the MOBIKINS model power bank across all flight operations to, from and within India, following a fire-related safety incident on an IndiGo aircraft. The regulatory order mandates that airlines enforce strict compliance to prevent the device from being brought onboard any commercial flight.

The action comes after a lithium-ion battery fire was reported involving the power bank model during a flight operation. Such incidents have raised concerns about portable battery safety in the aviation sector, where cabin pressurization and altitude conditions can amplify risks associated with faulty or defective lithium batteries.

The DGCA has directed all airlines operating in Indian airspace to ensure passenger awareness of the restriction and implement screening measures at check-in and boarding gates. Passengers are advised to verify that their portable power banks are not the banned MOBIKINS model before attempting to travel.

The directive reflects growing international scrutiny of lithium-ion battery devices in passenger cabins. Aviation authorities worldwide have intensified safety protocols around portable electronic devices after multiple incidents involving battery-related fires at altitude, where emergency response options are severely limited.