Airline passengers have been warned about strict new rules concerning power banks and lithium batteries, with some carriers banning them entirely and others imposing tight restrictions on their carriage. The measures follow growing safety concerns over the risk of battery fires during flights.
Which airlines have banned power banks?
Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Emirates have completely banned power banks from both cabin and hold luggage. Budget carriers Ryanair, EasyJet, and TUI still permit them but under stringent conditions.
Ryanair's power bank policy
Ryanair allows up to 15 personal electronic devices but requires spare batteries to be individually protected, either in original packaging or with taped terminals. Power banks must be stored under the seat in front, not in overhead lockers, and cannot exceed 100 watt-hours (Wh).
EasyJet's lithium battery rules
EasyJet strictly bans all lithium batteries from hold luggage. Power banks under 100Wh must be carried in cabin baggage only. Those between 100Wh and 160Wh require prior airline authorisation.
TUI's restrictions on power banks
TUI forbids loose lithium batteries in checked luggage and caps power bank capacity at 100Wh. Terminals must be safeguarded against short circuits, for example by using insulating tape.
Why are power banks banned or restricted on planes?
According to the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), lithium batteries pose a serious fire risk due to a phenomenon called thermal runaway, where a battery experiences a rapid, uncontrollable rise in temperature, leading to fire, explosion, and the release of toxic fumes. This risk is heightened in the confined space of an aircraft cabin.
Some airlines have now prohibited the use of power banks during flights entirely, and passengers are urged to check their airline's specific policy before travelling. The rules apply to all lithium-ion battery packs, portable chargers, and spare batteries for devices such as cameras and laptops.
Passengers are advised to always pack power banks in cabin baggage and ensure terminals are protected to avoid short circuits. Failure to comply may result in confiscation of the item or even denial of boarding.
