DGCA Bans Mobikins Power Bank On All Indian Flights After Flight Fire

Flight Incident

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has banned the MOBIKINS MK-PB-04 power bank on all flights to, from, and within India. The ban follows an incident where a power bank on an IndiGo flight exploded inside an overhead bin on October 11. The flight, originally traveling from Chandigarh to Chennai, had to divert to Hyderabad, where passengers completed an emergency evacuation.

Ban Details

In 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 checked or cabin baggage, or as cargo. The advisory was signed by Director General of Civil Aviation Vir Vikram Yadav. Airlines must take steps to identify the device, prevent its carriage, and share the safety advisory with passengers.

Reactions and Criticisms

The directive targets only the MOBIKINS MK-PB-04 model and does not create a blanket ban on all power banks. Critics questioned the decision to single out one relatively obscure brand and asked how airlines will enforce the order in practice.

Context

Lithium-ion batteries can catch fire due to internal short circuits or overheating under certain conditions, making them a major safety focus for global aviation authorities. Airlines already enforce strict rules regarding where passengers can store devices containing such batteries during travel.