Airlines are tightening restrictions on power banks following a series of in-flight fires linked to lithium-ion batteries. Several carriers have now banned passengers from using or charging these devices during flights in an effort to improve safety.
New airline policies on power banks
Thai Airways and AirAsia will enforce new rules from 15 March 2025, prohibiting passengers from using or charging power banks while onboard. The devices can still be carried in hand luggage, but they must remain switched off throughout the flight. These changes follow updated guidelines from the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand, which allow:
- Up to 100 Wh (20,000 mAh): a maximum of 20 units per passenger
- Between 100 Wh (20,000 mAh) and 160 Wh (32,000 mAh): a maximum of 2 units per passenger
- Over 160 Wh (32,000 mAh): prohibited on flights
EVA Air has also introduced a similar ban, effective from 1 March 2025, requiring all passengers to keep power banks switched off for the duration of the flight. Travellers are advised to fully charge their devices before boarding and use in-seat power outlets where available.
Incidents prompting policy changes
The stricter rules come after a series of fires caused by overheating power banks. In February 2025, a Batik Air flight from Johor Bahru to Bangkok saw a cabin fire break out due to a passenger’s power bank igniting mid-flight. Fortunately, crew members and passengers were able to extinguish the flames without injury.
Another serious incident occurred in January 2025 when an Air Busan aircraft caught fire while preparing for departure to Hong Kong. Authorities suspect a lithium-ion battery inside a power bank was the cause. The fire destroyed the aircraft, prompting Air Busan to prohibit passengers from storing power banks in overhead compartments, instead requiring them to be kept on the passenger’s person at all times.
Global regulations on power banks
International aviation authorities, including the International Air Transport Association and the Transportation Security Administration, require power banks to be carried in hand luggage rather than checked baggage. However, individual airlines are now taking further precautions by banning their in-flight use altogether.
What travellers need to know
Passengers flying with airlines that have introduced new power bank rules should:
- Check the airline’s specific policies before travel
- Avoid using or charging power banks onboard
- Keep power banks within the airline’s permitted capacity limits
- Purchase certified power banks from reputable manufacturers
With these new restrictions, airlines aim to reduce safety risks and prevent in-flight fires caused by lithium-ion batteries.
