India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has banned the MOBIKINS MK-PB-04 power bank from passenger and cargo flights operating to, from and within India, according to media reports published this week. The reported action followed a battery-fire incident on an IndiGo flight, raising concerns about the risk posed by the specific device.
Which power bank is banned?
The model identified in reports is the MOBIKINS MK-PB-04. The ban is described as applying to the named model rather than every power bank. Travellers should check the model number printed on their device and follow airline instructions if they are unsure whether it is affected.
Why did the DGCA act?
Reports say a power bank caught fire in an overhead luggage compartment on an IndiGo service, prompting the crew to respond and the flight to divert. Lithium-ion batteries can overheat or experience thermal runaway if damaged, defective, short-circuited or improperly handled. A battery fire in an aircraft cabin can become an urgent safety issue.
What should passengers do?
Do not carry the banned MOBIKINS MK-PB-04 model on flights covered by the restriction. For other power banks, check the latest airline and DGCA rules before departure. In general, spare lithium batteries and power banks must be carried in cabin baggage rather than checked luggage, and current aviation guidance may limit the number or use of such devices during flight.
Passengers should not use damaged, swollen or unusually hot power banks. If a device overheats, smokes or gives off an unusual smell during a flight, alert cabin crew immediately rather than placing it back in a bag.
Check product certification
Consumers should buy power banks from reliable sellers, inspect the model and capacity markings, and verify applicable Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) registration where required. Certification and reputable sourcing do not remove all risk, but they help shoppers avoid questionable products.
Where to verify the rules
Because aviation restrictions can change, check the DGCA’s latest advisory and your airline’s baggage policy before travelling. The rules for the named banned model are separate from general restrictions that apply to power banks and spare lithium batteries.
Important: This report reflects media coverage available on October 15, 2026. Follow official DGCA and airline notices for the most current requirements.
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