New Delhi, Jan. 4 -- The aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has banned the use of power banks to charge phones or other devices during flights, including via in-seat power outlets, following a series of global incidents where lithium batteries overheated or caught fire.

According to NDTV, Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu emphasised that safety of the people is foremost.

The guidelines issued in November last year stated that airlines should broadcast cabin announcements instructing passengers to:

Carry power banks and spare batteries only in hand luggage.

Refrain from using or charging power banks during the flight.

Immediately notify cabin crew if any device becomes hot, emits smoke, or prod...