The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has warned holidaymakers to pack power banks in their carry-on bags rather than checked-in luggage, following a number of safety incidents caused by lithium batteries on flights.
Around 30 million Brits are expected to pass through UK airports in July and August this year, with the busiest day set to be Friday 25 July, when roughly 500,000 travellers head off as schools break up for summer.
CAA warning on power banks
The CAA safety experts warned: "Incorrectly packed lithium batteries are increasingly causing delays and cancellations due to bags having to be offloaded. If a fire breaks out onboard, flights may have to be rerouted or evacuated."
Power banks must be carried in hand luggage "to enable swift action to be taken if they start to overheat". Passengers can carry only two power banks per person, and they should never be recharged on board, as this can increase fire risk.
Other items to pack in cabin
The CAA also listed ten common items that should not be overlooked when packing for a flight, advising travellers to check requirements: power banks, vapes, Bluetooth speakers, electric fans, fitness watches, digital cameras, tablets and e-readers, wireless headphones, smartwatches, and laptops.
Giancarlo Buono, Director of Aviation Safety at the CAA, said: "The only thing that should be running hot on your summer holiday is the weather, not a power bank in your suitcase. As millions of people prepare to travel this summer, packing your devices correctly is an important part of flying safely."
He added: "Power banks, vapes and spare lithium batteries should always be carried in the cabin, not packed in checked baggage. Pack right for a safe flight and help reduce the risk of delays, diversions and safety risks this summer."
Expert advice on battery safety
Giuseppe Capanna, product safety engineer at Electrical Safety First, said: "Lithium-ion batteries power many of the gadgets we can't live without, from mobile phones and laptops to power banks and wireless headphones. But whilst they’re small, they pack a lot of energy, meaning they can pose a serious fire risk on an aircraft if they’re damaged or poorly made.
"Before you head to the airport, give your devices a quick once-over. If a battery is bulging, swelling, changing shape, overheating or showing any other signs of damage, don’t take the risk. Instead, safely dispose of it as soon as possible at a local recycling centre with dedicated facilities for electronics and batteries and never put it in your general waste."
Capanna also advised: "Battery safety starts before you even step foot on an aircraft, starting with where you shop. When shopping for your summer getaway, the best way to protect yourself and those around you is to stick to a reputable high street retailer you know and trust to ensure your power bank or any other lithium-ion battery product you're taking away with you is safe."
Holidaymakers are advised to check directly with their airline on specification restrictions for power banks, as some airlines have additional requirements.
