Power Bank Fire: Dos, Don’ts & Safety Tips To Know Before Flying

A phone battery dying just as a traveler lands in a new city is annoying. A power bank smoking inside an aircraft, though? That’s a completely different story. The power bank fire on Indigo flight 6E 6115, which led to a diversion to Hyderabad on October 11, 2026, has put the spotlight on something many travelers barely think twice about while packing. Whether you’re booking flight tickets for a quick getaway or a long-haul journey, understanding airline rules for carrying power banks and other electronic devices is essential. The incident ended safely, but it raises a very real question for anyone carrying gadgets on their next trip.

Is Power Bank Allowed in Flight?
Airline Rules for Power Banks
What to Remember Before Take-Off
Frequently Asked Questions: Power Bank Fire
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Is Power Bank Allowed in Flight?

Mobile and a power bank
Image Credit: I’M ZION/Unsplash

Yes, power banks are generally allowed on flights, but there are a few rules to keep in mind. When looking for cheap flight tickets online, safety rules might be the last thing on a traveller’s mind, but knowing how to carry a power bank properly can help avoid unnecessary trouble and make the journey safer.

DON’Ts: Avoid these mistakes	DOs: Safe flying habits
Don’t pack your power bank in checked-in luggage.	Carry your power bank in your hand baggage.
Don’t store it in the overhead bin.	Keep it with you during the flight, where you can see it.
Don’t use it during the flight if your airline prohibits onboard use.	Follow your airline’s rules on power bank use.
Don’t charge it using the aircraft’s in-seat power supply if prohibited.	Check your airline’s latest safety instructions.
Don’t carry a swollen, cracked or overheating power bank.	Check that your power bank is in good condition.
Don’t let coins or keys touch its terminals.	Keep it in a pouch, away from metal objects.
Don’t ignore unclear battery capacity markings.	Make sure its capacity label is readable.
Don’t touch or handle a smoking power bank.	Alert the cabin crew immediately if you notice smoke, unusual heat or a burning smell.

Quick reminder: Airline restrictions can differ, so check your carrier’s current policy before carrying a power bank in flight.

Besides booking your flight, look for the best rates on hotels online so you can focus on packing right before your trip. And if you’d rather skip the planning altogether, all-inclusive holiday packages can be a great option, too!

Airline Rules for Power Banks

Cabin baggage
Image Credit: Towfiqu barbhuiya/Pexels

The rules about power banks on flights vary, so check the operating carrier’s latest policy, especially on connecting journeys.

Domestic Flights In India

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has banned using power banks during flights to charge phones, tablets or other devices, under safety guidelines issued in November 2025 and clarified in January 2026.

IndiGo: Keep power banks in hand baggage and within personal reach, not in overhead bins. The airline prohibits using or charging them onboard and limits passengers to two devices, with a stated maximum of 160 Wh.

Air India: It permits up to two power banks per passenger, each up to 100 Wh, in hand baggage only. Use or charging onboard is prohibited.

International Flights

Most airlines follow similar lithium-battery safety principles: power banks belong in cabin baggage, not checked luggage.
Batteries up to 100 Wh are generally accepted; those between 100 and 160 Wh usually require airline approval, where permitted.
Some airlines impose stricter limits on quantity, storage and onboard use. Check the operating airline’s policy, especially on connecting flights.
Most airlines prohibit using or recharging power banks during flights.

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Also Read: Things to Buy Than Pack to Save Space in Your Luggage

What to Remember Before Take-Off

Flying with a power bank doesn’t have to be stressful; keep it accessible, check its condition and follow crew instructions. If a power bank fire occurs nearby, alert the crew immediately and move away if directed. Never attempt to handle the battery yourself, the cabin crew handle emergencies.

Have you ever had a power bank confiscated at airport security? Share your experience in the comments!

Frequently Asked Questions: Power Bank Fire

Can you bring a power bank on a plane?
Yes, you can bring a power bank on a plane, but it is strictly required to be in your carry-on luggage and is completely banned from checked baggage.

Can you charge a power bank on a plane?
No, you are globally prohibited from charging a power bank using the aircraft’s seat power or USB ports while in flight.

What are the baggage policies of popular Indian airlines?
Domestic airlines such as IndiGo and Air India let passengers to check-in 15 kg of luggage and carry 7 kg of hand baggage. But the allowance varies for foreign flights.

What is not allowed in checked baggage for international flights?
You cannot pack lithium batteries, power banks, lighters, flammable liquids, or toxic chemicals in your checked bags.

Can we carry food items in flight check-in baggage?
Yes, you can carry dry and tightly packaged food items, but, your destination country may restrict or prohibit perishable items, liquid meals or foods with strong odours.

How to avoid power bank fire?
Buy power banks from trusted and certified companies and don’t store them in direct sunlight or in hot areas.

What can cause a power bank to explode?
Explosions are generally caused by internal short circuits, physical impacts, overcharging or the use of inexpensive, uncertified charging cords.

Is a 20000mAh power bank allowed in flights?
Yes a 20,000mAh power bank is completely safe and legal as it is much below the usual 27,000mAh (100 Wh) limit.

Which power banks are not allowed in flights?
Power banks with a capacity exceeding 160 Wh (around 43,000mAh) or those with damaged, unreadable, or missing labels are completely banned.

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Power Bank Fire: Dos, Don’ts & Safety Tips To Know Before Flying

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Is Power Bank Allowed in Flight?

Airline Rules for Power Banks

Domestic Flights In India

International Flights

Planning your next international getaway? Make travel preparations easier with online visa services in India and get one step closer to your dream destination!

Also Read: Things to Buy Than Pack to Save Space in Your Luggage

What to Remember Before Take-Off

Frequently Asked Questions: Power Bank Fire

Read More:

Akbar Travels Services

Best Flight Deals

Domestic Flights

International Flights

Best Hotel Deals

Apply Visa Online

International Tour Packages

Domestic Tour Packages

Packages by Themes

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