Global Crackdown on Power Banks in Cabins

In response to recent onboard battery incidents, most notably an Air Busan fire tied to a malfunctioning power bank, airlines worldwide are stepping up safety measures, imposing sweeping restrictions on power bank use during flights.

Air Busan led the change, banning power banks from hand luggage entirely. Following the incident, regulators and carriers acted swiftly. Japan’s transport ministry now requires carriers like ANA and Japan Airlines to ensure power banks remain in sight and out of overhead bins.

Emirates has introduced one of the strictest sets of rules, effective October 1, 2025: one power bank under 100 Wh is allowed per passenger, but it may neither be used nor charged aboard the aircraft, and must be stowed under the seat or in the seat pocket, not in the overheads.

In Europe, Lufthansa has banned charging power banks via seat outlets since May 22, 2025. The airline requires passengers to keep these devices visible, disallows those above 160 Wh, and demands pre-approval for units between 100–160 Wh.

Meanwhile, regulators across East Asia are raising the bar: China's aviation authority now prohibits any power bank lacking the official 3C safety mark, aligning with recent recalls and stricter certification demands.

These evolving policies reflect heightened global safety concerns over lithium-ion batteries, which can catch fire due to "thermal runaway." With power banks increasingly common, new rules aim to reduce risk, ensuring devices remain accessible in case of malfunction, and to mandate stringent safety checks and labelling.