Lithium batteries and power banks are the latest hot topics in aviation. Some airlines are banning them outright, while others are rolling out strict new policies. So, let’s break it down, and, of course, I’ll give you my take.
In This Post
The Airlines Laying Down the Law
Air Busan
Leading the charge, Air Busan was the first to tighten the rules on lithium batteries. A bold move.
Singapore Airlines
Singapore Airlines has decided that your power bank and USB ports are no longer friends. Charging portable power banks using onboard USB ports is a no-go, and using power banks to charge your own devices during flights is also banned.
This aligns with IATA’s Dangerous Goods Regulations, which classify power banks as lithium batteries. Singapore Airlines will still let you carry power banks under 100Wh without special approval. If yours falls between 100Wh and 160Wh, you’ll need airline permission. Anything above that? Forget it.
Taiwanese Airlines Join the Crackdown
EVA Air and China Airlines are banning passengers from using lithium power banks and spare batteries mid-flight starting 1 March 2025. EVA Air made it crystal clear:
“Power banks and spare lithium batteries are prohibited in checked baggage. They must be carried in your hand luggage and properly stored to prevent compression or damage.”
Thai Airways
Thailand’s national carrier has prioritised safety, but power banks are banned from flying due to fire risks. You can still bring them in your hand luggage, but they have to be stashed in the overhead bins. In their own words:
“This measure is implemented to ensure the highest level of safety for all passengers and crew members. We kindly ask for your cooperation and apologise for any inconvenience caused.”
Air Astana
Air Astana is hopping on the restriction train, not wanting to be left out. From 13 March 2025, expect tighter rules on lithium batteries and power banks.
My Take? This Is a Mess
Look, some of these power banks are dodgy. There have been plenty of flight diversions caused by overheating batteries. So, I get why airlines are nervous. The problem? There’s no universal law on this, so airlines are making their own rules. That means if you’re flying multiple carriers, you could be juggling different restrictions every step of the way.
Wouldn’t it be easier if they all agreed on one set of rules, a global standard? Instead, we get a confusing mess where what’s acceptable on one airline gets you into trouble on another. Until that happens, read the fine print before you fly, or risk having your power bank turned into an expensive deadweight.
