Power banks, once an essential travel companion for long-haul flights, are now facing tighter restrictions as more airlines clamp down on their use due to safety concerns.
Several major international carriers have banned passengers from charging or using power banks during flights, though travellers are still permitted to carry them in hand luggage. Storing them in checked baggage remains strictly prohibited.
Under new guidelines, power banks must remain visible and unplugged throughout the flight. The move comes after regulators recorded several cases of overheating and fires linked to lithium-ion batteries.
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has repeatedly warned about the dangers of lithium-ion batteries, highlighting the risk of “thermal runaway,” a chain reaction that can cause overheating, smoke, or fire without prior warning. According to FAA data reported by CNN, 50 verified battery-related incidents had been logged as of August 2025.
Airlines With Bans or Restrictions
At least 15 airlines have either banned or restricted the use of power banks on board, including:
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Vietnam Airlines – Allowed only in hand luggage; must remain unplugged.
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Vietjet Air – Same restrictions as Vietnam Airlines.
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Emirates – Total ban on power banks.
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Singapore Airlines – Permitted in cabin baggage, but in-flight use is prohibited.
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Scoot – No charging or use allowed on board.
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EVA Air – Restrictions on both carrying and use.
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Thai Airways – Full ban on power banks.
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AirAsia – Carry-on only, no in-flight use.
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Tigerair – Carry-on only, no in-flight use.
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Starlux Airlines – Prohibits onboard use.
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China Airlines – Carry-on only, unused during flights.
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Air Busan – Carry-on only, no use allowed.
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Malaysia Airlines – Must be stored under seats, no in-flight use.
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Firefly – Same as Malaysia Airlines.
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MASwings – Carry-on only, under seats, no charging allowed.
Airlines say the measures are necessary to protect passengers and crew from potential fire hazards, particularly on long-haul international flights.
