Rules regarding portable batteries on planes are evolving, driven by increasing safety concerns over lithium-ion batteries and their fire risks.
Starting March 24, 2025, significant updates have been introduced, particularly by airlines in Asia, following incidents such as the Air Busan plane fire in South Korea in January 2025. Here’s what you need to know about these latest changes:
Globally, the baseline regulations from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the U.S., as well as the International Air Transport Association (IATA), still apply. Lithium-ion batteries, commonly found in portable chargers (power banks), must be carried in carry-on baggage only, not in checked luggage.
This is because fires in the cabin can be addressed more quickly by flight crews than those in the cargo hold. The capacity limits remain: batteries up to 100 watt-hours (Wh) are generally allowed without restriction, while those between 101-160 Wh require airline approval, with a limit of two per passenger. Batteries exceeding 160 Wh are prohibited on passenger aircraft.
However, recent changes, particularly in Asia, have tightened these rules further. Since March 1, 2025, South Korean airlines have mandated that portable chargers be kept within arm’s reach during flights, banning their storage in overhead bins to reduce fire risks and ease passenger anxiety. Taiwanese airlines like EVA Air and China Airlines have gone further, prohibiting the use or charging of power banks onboard, though they can still be stored in overhead compartments. Thai Airways and Singapore Airlines have also introduced bans on using or charging power banks during flights, with Singapore Airlines set to enforce this starting April 1, 2025, even via onboard USB ports.
These changes stem from incidents highlighting the dangers of lithium-ion batteries, which can overheat or catch fire due to damage, overcharging, or manufacturing defects. The FAA has noted an increase in battery-related incidents on U.S. flights, from 32 in 2016 to 84 in 2024, with portable chargers often implicated. While U.S. and European regulations haven’t yet mirrored Asia’s stricter in-flight use bans, the FAA and other authorities are reviewing policies, with potential updates expected later in 2025.
For added convenience, consider investing in power banks that comply with international aviation standards and feature multiple charging ports to accommodate various devices. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the airline’s specific guidelines regarding electronic devices, as some carriers may impose stricter rules than others. Keeping a compact travel organizer for cables and adapters can also streamline your experience, ensuring you have everything you need without unnecessary clutter. As technology and regulations evolve, maintaining flexibility and preparedness will ensure smoother journeys.
