Jet2, British Airways, and easyJet have all implemented strict limits on the number of gadgets passengers can bring onboard flights, driven by safety concerns over lithium-ion batteries. The rise of devices powered by these batteries—such as mobile phones, laptops, electric toothbrushes, vapes, and e-bikes—has led to an increase in fire incidents. New figures reveal that fire brigades across the UK are tackling lithium-ion battery fires at a rate of one every five hours.
Why the restrictions?
Concerns about fires have prompted some airlines to ban certain devices entirely. In recent years, several carriers, including Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Emirates, have prohibited power banks on flights. Cathay Pacific introduced a similar ban last April, while other airlines have restricted items like AirPods. However, major UK airlines have not imposed outright bans but have set clear limits on the number of batteries and gadgets allowed.
Jet2 rules
Each Jet2 customer may carry a maximum of 15 lithium battery-powered personal electronic devices (PEDs), such as phones, laptops, tablets, watches, and toothbrushes, provided each battery does not exceed 160Wh for lithium-ion or 2g lithium content for lithium-metal. These must be in hand luggage, packaged to prevent damage. Passengers may also carry up to 20 spare loose lithium batteries, each individually protected against short circuits, with a capacity limit of 100Wh (or 2g lithium). Additionally, up to two spare batteries with a rating between 100Wh and 160Wh are allowed, along with a maximum of two power banks per person (not exceeding 160Wh). All such items must not be charged or used in-flight.
British Airways rules
British Airways limits lithium-ion batteries to 100Wh or less for general travel. Passengers may carry up to four spare batteries in cabin baggage, provided they are protected from damage. Power banks are restricted to carry-on only, with a maximum of two units. Batteries between 100Wh and 160Wh require special approval, while those over 160Wh are forbidden. Spare batteries and power banks must be in original packaging or have terminals insulated with tape to prevent short circuits.
EasyJet rules
EasyJet requires all lithium-ion batteries, spares, and power banks to be carried in hand luggage only. The general limit is 100Wh per battery (roughly 27,000mAh). Batteries above 160Wh are prohibited, while those between 100Wh and 160Wh need airline approval. Items must be protected from short circuits. Passengers can typically carry up to 15-20 spare batteries or devices per person.
Ryanair and Wizz Air
Ryanair permits lithium batteries and power banks up to 100Wh in carry-on luggage only, strictly prohibiting them in checked baggage. Up to 20 spare batteries or power banks (under 100Wh) are allowed, each individually protected. Wizz Air restricts spare batteries and power banks to carry-on baggage, with a maximum capacity of 100Wh per unit without approval. Batteries between 100Wh and 160Wh require prior approval, while those over 160Wh are banned. A maximum of two spare batteries per person is allowed. All such items must be in cabin baggage and are forbidden in checked luggage.
