Aviation regulator bans specific power bank model after mid-air fire incident

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has banned MOBIKINS MK-PB-04 power banks on all flights to, from and within India. The order follows an incident on October 11 when a power bank of this model exploded inside an overhead bin on an IndiGo flight from Chandigarh to Chennai, forcing the plane to divert to Hyderabad for an emergency evacuation.

Ban Details

Under an airworthiness information circular dated September 29, 2026, the aviation regulator directed airlines and passengers to ensure that this specific power bank is not carried on board aircraft in any form. The ban covers both checked-in and cabin baggage as well as cargo. The directive was signed by Director General of Civil Aviation Vir Vikram Yadav.

Airline Actions

The DGCA has advised airlines to take proper steps to spot and stop the carriage of this power bank. Carriers must also share this safety advisory with passengers through suitable channels. The order applies only to the MOBIKINS MK-PB-04 model and does not place a blanket ban on all power banks.

Criticisms Raised

Critics have questioned the reason for targeting one relatively unknown brand of power bank, stating that the limited scope makes the order less useful. They have also raised doubts about how authorities will ensure proper implementation of the ban.

Context

Lithium-ion batteries inside portable chargers can sometimes catch fire due to manufacturing flaws or damage, which is why aviation authorities closely regulate their carriage on aircraft. Such safety directives are typically issued to prevent mid-air emergencies and protect passengers and crew.