Beware When Flying! Airlines That Ban Power Banks Onboard

For many people, power banks have become like a "second life" for their gadgets. This small item is always in their bags when traveling, especially for those who frequently move between cities or work on the go.

However, who would have thought this battery-saving device could also turn into a hazard in the air?

This is because power banks generally use lithium-ion batteries, which are highly sensitive to heat and pressure.

If damaged, misused, or aged, these batteries can trigger sparks or even small explosions.

In the air, the risk is significantly greater due to the enclosed, high-pressure environment of an aircraft.

According to data from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), over 500 lithium-battery-related incidents have occurred in the past two decades.

These incidents included smoke, fire, or extreme temperatures that could potentially compromise flight safety.

For this reason, several airlines are now tightening regulations or even banning power bank use during flights.

Here is the list, as quoted from each airline's official website:

1. AirAsia

Passengers may only carry power banks with a maximum capacity of 100 watt-hours (Wh) or approximately 20,000 mAh.

This policy was implemented to enhance flight safety and prevent lithium battery incidents.

2. Thai Airways

Starting March 15, Thai Airways prohibits the use and charging of power banks onboard.

This rule was introduced following several fire incidents suspected to originate from portable chargers on international carriers.

3. South Korean Airlines

South Korean aviation authorities now ban passengers from storing power banks in overhead cabins.

These devices must be placed in seat pockets or under seats, and cannot be used to charge devices during flights.

4. Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines strictly prohibits charging devices using power banks or aircraft USB ports.

This policy aims to prevent potential overheating during flights.

5. EVA Air

This Japanese carrier also bans portable chargers in-flight.

Power banks and spare lithium batteries must not be placed in checked luggage and must be stored safely in cabin baggage to prevent pressure or damage.

6. Hong Kong Airlines

After a fire incident on a flight from Hangzhou, Hong Kong Airlines implemented an in-flight power bank ban effective April 7.

7. Emirates

Effective October 1, 2025, Emirates prohibits power bank usage during flights.

Power banks may still be carried in the cabin but must not be used to charge phones or recharge themselves.

While these rules may seem inconvenient, they exist for everyone's safety.

So before departure, ensure your power bank doesn't exceed capacity limits and store it properly in your carry-on bag.