Key Takeaways
- South Korea banned overhead-bin power bank storage from March 1, 2025, due to a January 28, 2025, fire incident.
- Passengers can carry power banks under 100Wh; those between 100Wh-160Wh require airline approval; over 160Wh are prohibited.
- EVA Air prohibits power bank use or charging on all flights starting March 1, 2025; airline policies differ widely.
As of March 11, 2025, air travelers will need to pay close attention to new and evolving rules for carrying portable batteries, power banks, and lithium-ion batteries on flights. In many places, these changes stem from a focus on safety, particularly incidents involving lithium-ion batteries. This guide will outline the key updates, explain varying airline policies, and provide practical advice to help travelers navigate these changing regulations.
Summary of Recent Changes
The use and carriage of portable batteries, including power banks, have come under scrutiny from aviation authorities worldwide. Concerns about incidents, such as fires caused by lithium-ion batteries, have led to stricter rules. A major turning point was a January 28, 2025, incident where a power bank in an overhead bin caught fire on an Air Busan flight. Following this event, South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport (MLIT) banned overhead-bin stowage of power banks and e-cigarettes on South Korean-operated flights, effective March 1, 2025.
Adding to this, Taiwan’s EVA Air implemented a ban on the use and charging of power banks throughout its flights beginning March 1, 2025. Such updates reflect how aviation authorities and airlines are enhancing measures to reduce risks associated with lithium-ion batteries.
Current Regulations on Portable Batteries
According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the global aviation body, passengers can bring portable batteries and spare lithium-ion batteries under certain guidelines:
- Power banks with a capacity of up to 100 watt-hours (Wh), roughly 27,000 milliampere-hours (mAh), are allowed in carry-on baggage only.
- For batteries between 100Wh and 160Wh, approval from the airline is required.
- Any power banks exceeding 160Wh are strictly prohibited.
These rules emphasize the need to check your battery’s capacity before traveling. Most power banks used for mobile phones and small devices usually fall well within the 100Wh restriction, but travelers with larger batteries—for example, those used for high-powered equipment—need to investigate carefully.
How Airline Policies Differ
Airlines have different safety protocols regarding portable batteries. Below are key policies travelers should know:
- EVA Air 🏳 – Completely prohibits passengers from using or charging power banks and spare lithium-ion batteries on all flights as of March 1, 2025.
- Starlux Airlines 🏳 – Has sustained a blanket ban on portable battery use or charging since its inception in 2018.
Tigerair Taiwan 🏳 – Prohibits power bank usage and bans carrying power banks without clear labeling or specifications.
China Airlines & UNI Air 🏳 – Recommend protective packaging for portable batteries and suggest avoiding their use. However, usage is not explicitly banned.
American Airlines 🇺🇸 – Permits power bank use and charging with prior confirmation from flight attendants.
Delta Air Lines 🇺🇸 – Allows charging of devices with power banks but restricts their use during takeoff and landing.
These rules underline the importance of checking airline-specific guidelines before boarding.
Practical Advice for Travelers
Travelers should consider the following steps to ensure a smoother flying experience in light of these changes:
- Fully Charge Devices Pre-flight: Since many airlines now prohibit in-flight use of portable batteries, it’s crucial to charge your phone, tablet, and other gadgets before departure.
Pack Smart: Always pack power banks and spare batteries in your carry-on. Lithium-ion batteries are not allowed in checked luggage due to fire hazards. Secure spare batteries in original packaging or use insulating materials like tape over the terminal ends.
Verify Battery Limits: Confirm that your power bank’s capacity is within the allowed 100Wh. If it’s between 100Wh and 160Wh, seek written airline approval well before traveling.
Review Airline Policies: Airlines differ widely when it comes to power bank use, so visit the airline’s official site or contact their customer service for clarity.
Alternatives for Charging: Use seat power outlets or airport charging stations if your flight prohibits power bank use on board.
Stay Updated: Regulations can change frequently. It’s important to check for the latest rules on portable batteries from reliable sources like airline websites or government announcements.
Looking Ahead: Upcoming Regulatory Changes
The regulations around lithium-ion batteries are not static and will continue to evolve in response to safety concerns. A few upcoming developments include:
- January 1, 2025: The IATA advised that lithium-ion batteries used in devices or vehicles should not exceed 30% of their full charge when transported by air. This is currently a recommendation but will become mandatory starting January 1, 2026.
U.S.: The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is reviewing regulations and may roll out updates for carrying portable batteries on both domestic and international flights.
UK/EU: While some airports in Europe phase out the 100ml liquid rule for carry-on baggage, battery screening protocols may also see adjustments as changes are implemented.
These measures indicate a growing global commitment to passenger safety, though they may also lead to tighter restrictions on portable batteries.
Risks Associated with Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium-ion batteries, though highly efficient for powering devices, carry risks that aviation authorities must manage. Overheating, manufacturing defects, or pressure changes at high altitudes can lead to overheating and, in rare cases, fires. Incidents such as the Air Busan fire point to stricter enforcement as a logical response to such safety challenges. However, these rules might inconvenience passengers who rely heavily on devices during long-haul flights.
Impact on Tech-Savvy Travelers
Many modern travelers carry several gadgets, from smartphones and smartwatches to laptops, all of which may rely on portable power banks for extra charging capacity. Prohibitions and restrictions can present practical difficulties for such travelers. For example, EVA Air’s complete ban on power bank charging means passengers either need to plan for fully charged devices or ensure their airline offers USB or outlet charging facilities in seats.
Frequent flyers may need to invest in power banks clearly marked with specifications or devices with extra-long battery life to avoid disruptions.
Ensuring Compliance and Avoiding Delays
Ignoring these rules can result in delays or confiscation of portable batteries at security checkpoints. For instance, unmarked or heavily worn power banks might not pass inspection. Always ensure:
- Your power bank is clearly labeled with capacity information.
- You comply with carry-on-only rules for electrical gadgets.
- You check your bag and yourself for compliance before leaving for the airport.
Being vigilant about compliance not only prevents disruptions but supports safety efforts by aviation authorities.
Resources for Travelers
To confirm battery regulations with airlines or aviation authorities, travelers can explore official resources. For up-to-date rules, visit the IATA Dangerous Goods page or contact your airline through its website or helpline.
Travelers may also find trusted platforms like VisaVerge.com helpful for curated updates on air travel regulations, including those for portable batteries and power banks.
Conclusion
The new restrictions on portable batteries, power banks, and lithium-ion batteries aim strictly to promote passenger safety. With events like battery fires serving as a stark reminder of potential risks, these measures are becoming more comprehensive globally. For travelers, adjusting to these changes requires preparation: fully charged devices, compliance with airline policies, and ongoing awareness of evolving rules.
Although the changing landscape poses challenges for tech-reliant passengers, safety remains the priority. Preparing ahead and staying informed will ensure that you can comply with regulations and travel without unnecessary interruptions. Gradual adaptation by aviation authorities likely means further updates to the rules in years to come—making it essential to remain proactive about changes each time you prepare for your next journey.
Learn Today
Lithium-ion Batteries → Rechargeable batteries commonly used in portable devices, known for high efficiency but posing fire risks under certain conditions.
Watt-hour (Wh) → A measurement of electrical energy capacity, used to indicate battery power limits for air travel safety compliance.
Carry-on Baggage → Small bags or items passengers take onboard an aircraft, stored in overhead bins or under the seat.
Overhead Bin → Enclosed storage compartments above passenger seats in airplanes, often used to store personal or carry-on items.
IATA (International Air Transport Association) → Global aviation organization that sets guidelines and standards for safe air transport, including battery-related regulations.
This Article in a Nutshell
Starting March 11, 2025, stricter rules for carrying lithium-ion batteries on flights highlight safety concerns after incidents like the Air Busan fire. Airlines now prohibit certain power bank uses, with varying policies. Travelers must check battery capacities, pack smartly in carry-ons, and stay informed about evolving regulations to avoid delays and ensure compliance.
— By VisaVerge.com
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