Singapore Airlines (SIA), its budget airline Scoot, and Thai Airways have announced a ban on the in-flight use and charging of powerbanks, citing safety concerns linked to lithium battery-related fire risks.
The policy change, which aligns with international aviation safety regulations, aims to prevent potential overheating incidents that have occurred on aircraft in recent years.
In their Facebook posts, SIA and Scoot announced that it will implement the ban starting April 1, while Thai Airways will enforce the same rule beginning March 15.
Under the new regulations, passengers can still carry power banks in their hand luggage but will no longer be allowed to use them to charge electronic devices mid-flight. Charging power banks via onboard USB ports is also prohibited.
New powerbank regulations
According to the updated airline policies, passengers are subject to strict limitations on power banks based on capacity:
- Power banks up to 100Wh – Allowed in carry-on baggage without restrictions.
- Power banks between 100Wh and 160Wh – Permitted only with prior airline approval
As a general rule, power banks cannot be stored in checked-in baggage under any circumstances due to the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are known to overheat or short-circuit, potentially leading to fires or explosions if not handled properly.
Safety concerns and past incidents
The decision to ban in-flight charging follows several incidents involving power banks catching fire on aircraft.
In 2023, a Scoot flight in Taiwan was delayed after a passenger’s power bank overheated and ignited, causing minor injuries to two travelers.
More recently, a fire broke out on an Air Busan flight in South Korea, reportedly caused by a power bank, leading to damage to the aircraft and raising further concerns about battery safety.
Airlines worldwide have been tightening restrictions on lithium batteries in response to such incidents.
Moreover, the Civil Authority of the Philippines has also prohibited power banks in flights exceeding 160Wh. It still allows 100Wh powerbanks in hand carry luggages.
Furthermore, the International Air Transport Association classified power banks as “dangerous goods,” emphasizing the need for strict regulations to ensure passenger safety.
While many airlines have long required power banks to be carried in hand luggage rather than checked bags, the outright ban on in-flight charging represents a more aggressive approach to risk mitigation.
