Quote from Alex bobby on April 9, 2025, 5:06 AM

Why Airlines Are Cracking Down on Power Banks – And What You Need to Know

For years, power banks have been a staple in every traveler’s carry-on – a convenient solution to the dreaded “low battery” notification mid-journey. But what was once considered an essential travel companion is now under increasing scrutiny by airlines and aviation authorities alike. A growing number of carriers are implementing strict rules – and in some cases, outright bans – on power banks aboard flights. So, what’s behind this shift in policy, and what does it mean for your next trip?

A Hidden Fire Risk in the Skies

The issue lies within the technology that powers these portable chargers: lithium-ion batteries. These batteries, while widely used in consumer electronics, carry a significant fire risk if damaged, defective, or exposed to extreme conditions. According to travel consultant Colin Pearson, who works in collaboration with boutique hotel Stanton House Inn, the danger isn’t just theoretical.

“A malfunctioning power bank can overheat, catch fire, or even explode, which is particularly dangerous in the confined space of an aircraft,” says Pearson.

This concern is echoed by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), which has flagged lithium-ion batteries as a potential hazard due to their volatile nature. On a plane, where the environment includes high pressure and sometimes fluctuating temperatures, the risk of malfunction increases – and so does the danger to passengers and crew.

Recent Incidents Spark Airline Action

While incidents of power banks causing fires on flights remain relatively rare, they’ve been serious enough to cause concern. Cabin fires – even small ones – can have catastrophic consequences in flight. That reality has led to a growing number of airlines reevaluating their policies.

“It's no longer merely a matter of inconvenience,” Pearson explains. “The safety of all passengers and crew members aboard the aircraft is the primary concern, and even a single incident can have far-reaching consequences.”

Major airlines like Qantas and Emirates have taken proactive steps in response. Qantas, for instance, now limits the use of power banks during the flight, and Emirates has introduced size and usage restrictions. Cathay Pacific and Singapore Airlines have gone a step further, banning passengers from using power banks during flights or plugging them into the aircraft’s power system.

These new regulations are aimed at minimising the chance of overheating, short-circuiting, or misuse while in-flight.

So, What Are the Current Rules?

If you’re planning a flight and wondering whether your trusty power bank can tag along, the answer is: it depends.

According to IATA guidelines – which many airlines follow closely – traveler’s can bring power banks with a capacity of up to 100 watt-hours (Wh) in their carry-on baggage without needing to notify the airline. For power banks between 100 and 160Wh, prior approval from the airline is typically required. Any power bank above 160Wh is strictly prohibited from being carried on board.

Importantly, power banks are not allowed in checked luggage under any circumstance. They must be placed in carry-on baggage and, depending on the airline, either kept with the passenger or stowed in an overhead compartment.

Some airlines are also restricting the use of power banks during the flight. That means no charging your phone mid-air using your power bank, especially if your airline has specific rules about in-flight battery use.

Smart Travel Tips in Light of the Ban

To avoid travel-day hiccups or even the confiscation of your power bank, Pearson recommends always checking your airline’s battery policy before you fly.

“A little extra preparation can go a long way,” he says. “Check the capacity of your power bank, confirm it’s below the 100Wh limit, and if it’s higher, contact your airline in advance for approval.”

He also suggests considering alternatives. Charge your devices fully before the flight, bring extra USB cables for charging at the gate or during layovers, and look for airports with reliable charging stations. In some cases, investing in airline-approved battery packs or renting power banks at the airport might be your safest bet.

A New Normal for Safer Flights

Air travel is continually evolving, especially as technology presents new challenges and risks. The increased caution around power banks is just the latest in a series of safety-first decisions by airlines worldwide.

For now, power banks haven’t been banned outright across all carriers – but they are under intense scrutiny, and policies are tightening. Traveler’s who stay informed and flexible will have no trouble adapting, and in doing so, will contribute to a safer flying experience for everyone on board.

So next time you’re packing your carry-on, don’t forget to check that power bank – it’s no longer just a travel essential, but a potential risk that needs careful handling.