Power bank blamed for plane fire: What travellers need to know about lithium-ion battery risks
Though rare, serious fire risk posed by power banks seen as a key aviation safety issue
Airlines across the globe are tightening regulations surrounding power banks.
This raises concerns for frequent flyers who rely on these portable chargers.
Now, more airlines are not allowing passengers to use or charge power banks and spare lithium batteries at any time during the flight.
The comes as awareness about the risks they pose inflight heightened after an Airbus A321 South Korea's Air Busan caught fire on January 28, 2025. On March 14, 2025, investigators declared a power bank "likely" caused the passenger jet going up in flames.
At the time of the incident, the aircraft was luckily delayed waiting for pushback at Gimhae International Airport in Busan (325 km south-east of Seoul), with no fatalities were reported.
Investigators disclosed that the fire, which destroyed jet, originated in a rear overhead luggage bin.
The aviation industry continues to find ways to mitigate risks associated with lithium-ion battery malfunctions, which can lead to overheating or fires in the confined cabin environment.
The fire risk behind power banks
Power banks operate using lithium-ion batteries, used for their high energy density. That efficiency comes with a downside: they can overheat, catch fire, or even explode under specific conditions.
These risks are usually triggered by damage, exposure to extreme temperatures, or internal defects.
One critical failure mode, known as thermal runaway, can result in uncontrollable heat and ignition.
In the controlled but pressurised environment of an airplane cabin — where ventilation is limited and air is dry — the chances of such malfunctions increase.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has updated its safety protocols accordingly, prompting many airlines to follow suit.
Several Gulf carriers have implemented specific regulations regarding the carriage and use of power banks.
The UAE's General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) permits passengers to carry power banks on UAE-based airlines such as Emirates, Etihad, Flydubai, and Air Arabia. Flyers, however, must follow specific rules.
Each battery must be individually protected to prevent short circuits.
Authorities at Dubai International have reminded passengers that spare batteries and power banks are prohibited in checked-in luggage due to safety hazards.
Incidents that sparked stricter rules
Though infrequent, several alarming incidents involving power banks catching fire mid-flight have made headlines.
In one case, a damaged power bank ignited during a flight, filling the cabin with smoke and requiring fire extinguishers.
While no injuries were reported, such events underscore the dangers these devices can pose at high altitudes.
How airlines are responding
Major carriers have started enforcing strict guidelines on carrying and using power banks:
Qantas Airways: Requires power banks to be stored in carry-on luggage and prohibits their use during flight.
Emirates: Allows power banks on board but restricts their usage and charging during the journey.
Singapore Airlines: Permits power banks only within specific limits and bans them from being connected to in-seat power systems.
Cathay Pacific: Passengers require prior approval for high-capacity units and prohibits in-flight use.
Thai Airways: Prohibits use of powerbank onboard the aircraft from March 15, 2025.
Eva Air: The airline has implemented a strict ban as of Mardh 1, 2025 on the use and charging of power banks and spare lithium batteries during flights.
China Airlines: From March 1, 2025, the Taiwan-based China Airlines has banned the use or charging of powerbanks and spare lithium batteries during flights.
Korean Air: The airline has announced restrictions on batteries carried by passengers. Batteries above 160Wh are prohibited. Batteries between 100Wh and 160Wh are limited to two per person, but require airline approval at the check-in counter. A passenger can carry up to 5 power banks with a capacity of up to 100 watt-hours (Wh) each. Moveover, passengers must keep power banks and e-cigarettes on their person and not in overhead bins or checked baggage.
Although policies vary slightly, the common theme is clear:
Use is restricted,
High-capacity devices are regulated, and
Storage in checked luggage is not allowed.
Current guidelines and capacity limits
Airlines typically adhere to safety limits set by aviation authorities like IATA, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). These guidelines include:
Power banks under 100 Wh: Allowed in carry-on luggage without approval.
Power banks between 100 Wh and 160 Wh: Allowed only with airline approval.
Power banks over 160 Wh: Completely banned on passenger aircraft.
Passengers should always check the watt-hour (Wh) rating printed on their devices. If it's missing, the item may be confiscated at security checkpoints.
Key Points
Why the ban?
Power banks use lithium-ion batteries, which can overheat or explode, especially in the pressurized cabin environment.
Fire incidents: Rare, but serious incidents (e.g., mid-air fires) have pushed airlines to enforce stricter rules.
Common airline policies:
Must be kept in carry-on bags.
In-flight use is generally prohibited.
Size and capacity restrictions apply.
Power bank limits:
<100 Wh: Allowed without approval.
100–160 Wh: Airline approval required.
>160 Wh: Prohibited entirely.
Travel tips: Always check your device’s watt-hour rating, keep it accessible, and charge gadgets before flying.
Sign up for the Daily Briefing
Get the latest news and updates straight to your inbox
