AIRLINES: Battery power bank rules — what you need to know

Due to some recent incidents, Airlines are tightening their rules about the storage and use of battery power banks onboard aircraft. Here is a summary of the rules that apply to airlines in the Asian and Oceania regions, plus those that fly into Australia. Policies are changing, so please check the rules for the specific airline you are travelling with before you fly. Links to particular airline policies are provided where available.

What are power banks and why do travellers Use Them?

Power banks are portable battery packs that allow travellers to charge their electronic devices on the go. Whether navigating an unfamiliar city, enduring a long flight, or waiting at an airport with limited power outlets, a power bank allows your smartphone, tablet, or laptop to power up.

However, because they contain lithium-ion batteries—known for their potential fire risks—airlines enforce strict regulations on their carriage and use.

If you’re planning on flying anywhere in Asia or Oceania, you’d better keep that power bank in your carry-on. Airlines across the region have tightened restrictions on lithium-ion batteries, and one golden rule applies almost everywhere: no power banks in checked luggage. Why? The risk of fire is too great, and no one wants an impromptu in-flight bonfire.

Below are some details and specific rules

Capacity matters: the Watt-Hour limits

Not all power banks are created equal, and airlines enforce strict limits on their capacity:

• Up to 100Wh – No problem! Most airlines allow you to carry these onboard without prior approval.
• 100Wh to 160Wh – Permission required. Check with your airline before packing.
• Above 160Wh – Forget it. These are strictly prohibited.

New rules after fire incidents

Airlines and regulators have been updating their policies, especially after a recent power bank fire incident on an Air Busan flight 391 in January 2025. Incidents like these highlight the potential dangers of improperly stored lithium-ion batteries, prompting stricter regulations.

South Korea’s crackdown

Starting March 1, 2025, South Korea’s transport ministry is enforcing new safety measures:

• Passengers can only carry up to five 100Wh power banks.
• Charging power banks during the flight? Banned.
• No storing power banks or e-cigarettes in overhead bins.

The changes come after multiple reports of battery-related fires, including the Air Busan incident, which led to an emergency landing and injuries to cabin crew.

Airline-specific Battery and power bank policies

• Air Busan: power banks can’t be stored or charged in overhead bins. Keep them close for easy monitoring.
• Eva Air & China Airlines: As of March 1, 2025, using or charging power banks onboard is forbidden. You can still carry them in your hand luggage—just don’t plug them in.
• AirAsia: Sticking with the standard rules—power banks up to 100Wh are fine in carry-on, 100Wh to 160Wh needs airline approval, and anything bigger stays on the ground.

International airlines connecting to Australia— dangerous goods policies

When flying into or out of Australia, it’s essential to be aware of the power bank policies of various international airlines. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Qantas: Allows power banks up to 100Wh in carry-on baggage. Devices between 100Wh and 160Wh require prior approval. Power banks are prohibited in checked luggage. Qantas Dangerous Goods Policy
• Virgin Australia: Permits power banks in carry-on baggage only. Smart bags with non-removable batteries are not allowed. Virgin Australia Battery Policy
• Singapore Airlines: Allows power banks up to 100Wh in carry-on baggage. Devices between 100Wh and 160Wh require airline approval. Singapore Airlines Dangerous Goods
• Emirates: Permits power banks with a capacity not exceeding 100Wh in carry-on baggage. Prior approval is needed for devices between 100Wh and 160Wh. Emirates Restricted Items
• Cathay Pacific: Allows power banks up to 100Wh in carry-on baggage. Devices between 100Wh and 160Wh require prior approval. Cathay Pacific Restricted Items
• United Airlines: Permits power banks up to 100Wh in carry-on baggage. Devices between 100Wh and 160Wh require airline approval. United Airlines Dangerous Goods
• Delta Air Lines: Allows power banks up to 100Wh in carry-on baggage. Devices between 100Wh and 160Wh require prior approval. Delta Restricted Items
• American Airlines: Permits power banks up to 100Wh in carry-on baggage. Devices between 100Wh and 160Wh require airline approval. American Airlines Restricted Items
• British Airways: Allows power banks up to 100Wh in carry-on baggage. Devices between 100Wh and 160Wh require prior approval. British Airways Restricted Items
• Etihad Airways: Permits power banks up to 100Wh in carry-on baggage. Devices between 100Wh and 160Wh require airline approval. Etihad Restricted Items

2PAXfly Takeout — Safety First

Let’s try and make it simple and apply some common sense. If you want to avoid any airport drama, follow these simple tips:

• Keep power banks in your carry-on, not checked baggage.
• Don’t store them in overhead bins where they can overheat unnoticed.
• Forget about charging them mid-flight—most airlines now prohibit this.
• Double-check airline policies before flying, as rules can vary.

Flying with power banks doesn’t have to be a hassle, but ignoring the rules can lead to confiscation—or worse, a flight delay. These policy updates serve as a direct response to real-world safety concerns, ensuring safer skies for all. Play it safe.

This story was written with the assistance of ChatGPT but checked and edited by a human. Unless otherwise stated, images are © Stephen Schuetz.