Airlines Enforce Urgent Power Bank Ban on Flights – What Passengers Must Know
A Shocking Mid-Air Emergency
Imagine this: You’re on a flight, cruising at 35,000 feet, when suddenly, smoke starts filling the cabin. Panic sets in. Flight attendants rush to control the situation. The pilot announces an emergency landing.
The cause? A power bank overheating and exploding inside a passenger’s bag.
This terrifying incident isn’t fiction—it happened on March 21, 2025, when a Hong Kong Airlines flight had to make an emergency landing after a power bank caught fire mid-flight. Just a month earlier, on February 19, 2024, a Royal Air Philippines flight had a similar emergency due to a power bank explosion.
To prevent such dangers, major airlines like Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air have now banned the use of power banks on flights. Here’s everything you need to know.
Why Are Airlines Banning Power Banks?
Why Are Power Banks a Safety Risk on Flights?
Power banks may seem like harmless travel essentials, but their lithium-ion batteries pose a serious risk if not handled properly. These batteries are compact yet highly volatile, making them prone to dangerous malfunctions. If a power bank is damaged, defective, or overcharged, it can lead to severe consequences, including overheating, fires, and even explosions mid-flight.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the key risks associated with lithium-ion batteries:
| Risk Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Overheating | Lithium-ion batteries can generate excessive heat, leading to potential fires. |
| Short-Circuiting | Damaged batteries can cause electrical shorts, resulting in sparks and fire hazards. |
| Thermal Runaway | Uncontrolled temperature rise can cause the battery to explode or catch fire. |
On an airplane, even a small fire can turn deadly within seconds. That’s why aviation safety authorities worldwide have strict regulations on carrying power banks on board.
Recent Flight Emergencies Linked to Power Banks
Rising Safety Concerns: Power Bank Explosions on Flights
The growing number of power bank-related incidents has raised serious safety concerns for airlines worldwide. Several flights have been diverted or forced to make emergency landings due to overheating or exploding lithium-ion batteries. These incidents highlight the potential dangers of carrying power banks on planes, leading many airlines to tighten their regulations.
Here are some of the most alarming cases reported in recent years:
| Date | Airline | Incident Details |
|---|---|---|
| March 21, 2025 | Hong Kong Airlines | Emergency landing due to power bank explosion. |
| February 19, 2024 | Royal Air Philippines | Flight diversion caused by an overheating power bank. |
| Various | Thai Airways, Air Asia, Air Busan | Reported multiple power bank-related safety incidents. |
These growing safety concerns have led to tighter restrictions on carrying and using power banks on flights.
New Power Bank Rules for Passengers
As of March 24, 2025, Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air have imposed strict new policies regarding power banks.
What’s Allowed & What’s Not?
Power Bank Rules Every Air Traveler Must Follow
With the rising risks of power bank explosions on flights, airlines have enforced strict safety regulations for carrying these devices. To avoid fines or confiscation at security checks, passengers must follow specific guidelines regarding where and how power banks can be carried.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what’s allowed and what’s not when traveling with power banks:
| Allowed ✅ | Not Allowed ❌ |
|---|---|
| Power banks can only be carried in hand luggage (not checked bags). | No power bank usage during flights—they must remain switched off. |
| They must be turned off and visible—not buried deep in bags. | No charging phones or devices using power banks. |
| Passengers can carry up to 10 power banks (each under 100Wh). | No charging power banks from airplane USB ports. |
| If a power bank is 100Wh–160Wh, only two devices are allowed. | Power banks must not be packed in checked luggage. |
Airlines have adopted these rules to prevent in-flight fires and emergencies, making air travel safer for everyone.
How to Check If Your Power Bank is Allowed?
Are Your Power Banks Airline-Compliant? Here’s How to Check
Many travelers unknowingly carry power banks that exceed airline limits, risking confiscation at security checkpoints. Since airlines measure power banks in watt-hours (Wh), not just mAh, it’s crucial to calculate the Wh value to ensure compliance.
Luckily, you don’t need to be a math expert—just use this simple formula:
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Formula | Watt-hour (Wh) = Battery capacity (mAh) × Voltage (V) ÷ 1000 |
| Example Input | Power bank capacity: 20,000mAh, Voltage: 5V |
| Calculation | (20,000 × 5) ÷ 1000 = 100Wh |
| Conclusion | Since 100Wh is within the airline limit, it can be carried but not used during the flight. |
Tip: Always check your power bank’s Wh rating before packing it for your trip!
Which Airlines Have Similar Power Bank Restrictions?
Global Airlines Tighten Power Bank Rules
Vietnam isn’t the only country enforcing stricter power bank regulations. With multiple incidents of exploding batteries on flights, airlines worldwide have taken preventive measures to enhance passenger safety. Many have banned in-flight power bank usage or imposed strict storage requirements to minimize risks.
Here’s a quick look at some major airlines and their power bank policies:
| Airline | Country | Power Bank Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Thai Airways | Thailand | No in-flight power bank usage. |
| AirAsia | Malaysia | Power banks must remain turned off and stored safely. |
| Air Busan | South Korea | Similar bans on power bank usage mid-flight. |
More airlines could soon follow, as aviation safety authorities intensify their focus on lithium battery risks.
What This Means for Travelers
How to Travel Safely with Power Banks
If you rely on power banks to keep your devices charged, this new rule might feel frustrating. However, aviation safety comes first. To avoid travel disruptions or confiscation at security checkpoints, it’s essential to follow the correct handling and storage guidelines.
Here’s a quick checklist of DOs and DON’Ts to ensure a smooth journey:
| ✅ DOs | ❌ DON’Ts |
|---|---|
| Keep power banks in hand luggage—never in checked bags. | Never place power banks in checked baggage. |
| Make sure they are turned off and properly stored. | Do not charge your phone using a power bank during the flight. |
| If your power bank is between 100Wh and 160Wh, carry only two. | Avoid using airplane USB ports to charge power banks—it’s banned. |
| Check your airline’s latest rules before flying. |
By following these rules, you’ll ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.
What’s Next? Will More Airlines Follow?
What’s Next for Power Bank Regulations?
With the increasing number of power bank-related incidents, airlines are expected to introduce stricter safety measures in the coming months. Travelers must stay updated on new rules and restrictions to avoid disruptions while flying.
While bans are currently being enforced, future solutions may focus on safety innovations instead of outright prohibitions. Here’s what we might see in the near future:
| Upcoming Changes in Power Bank Regulations |
|---|
| Expect stricter rules on carrying lithium batteries on flights. |
| Frequent travelers should always check updated airline policies before boarding. |
| Possible Future Safety Measures |
| Fireproof battery compartments |
| Advanced detection systems for overheating devices |
| Regulated power bank usage areas |
Until then, it’s best to follow the new rules and ensure a safe flight for everyone.
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Final Thoughts: Stay Powered, Stay Safe
Stay Safe & Compliant: What Travelers Must Do
Power banks are a lifesaver for travelers, keeping devices charged on the go. However, due to the rising risk of explosions, airlines like Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air have introduced strict new regulations to enhance in-flight safety.
To avoid penalties, confiscation, or even boarding denial, here’s what you need to do before your next flight:
| Important Travel Tips |
|---|
| ✅ If you’re flying soon, follow these new regulations to avoid confiscation, penalties, or even being denied boarding. |
| ✅ Check your power bank’s capacity (Wh) and pack it properly to ensure compliance. |
💡 Pro Tip: Invest in an airline-approved power bank that meets international aviation standards.
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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, airline regulations may change over time. Passengers are advised to check with their airline for the most up-to-date policies before traveling.
TN HEADLINES24 is not responsible for any consequences resulting from the misuse of this information. Travelers should always comply with official airline guidelines and aviation safety regulations.
