Airlines ban power banks usage worldwide during flights after in-flight incidents because of lithium-ion batteries. The IATA (International Air Transport Association) has upgraded its safety rules and is persuading individuals to follow these protocols.
On 28 January 2025, an Airbus A321 of Air Busan caught fire at Gimhae International Airport in South Korea. After thorough investigation, officials determined that a power bank caused the fire. Afterward, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport of South Korea strictly instructed passengers to carry their power banks in person but restricted their use during flights from 1 March 2025. Furthermore, power banks are banned from being stored in overhead compartments, and each passenger is allowed only five devices.
The other airlines also follow the pattern. AirAsia and Thai Airways have also mandated that the use or charging of power banks onboard is not allowed from 15 March 2025. China Airlines and EVA Air have also implemented a ban on the usage of power banks during flights. Similarly, Hong Kong Airlines noted a policy according to which power banks should be stored in carry-on luggage and restricted their use during takeoff, landing, and taxiing .
These initiatives aimed to reduced the risk of harmful events associated with Lithium-ion batteries malfunctions and increased the safety in flightss
IATA New Guidelines for Carrying Lithium Batteries:
- Power banks up to 100 Wh (watt-hours) are permitted in carry-on baggage with airline approval.
- Between 100 Wh and 160 Wh devices mandated airline approval
- Up to 160 Wh are prohibited on passenger aircraft
Moreover, travelers are encouraged to keep power banks in carry-on baggage, without permission avoid using power banks onboard, and make sure devices are in good condition to prevent fires and overheating.
