Hey there, fellow travelers! Several airlines have recently updated their battery restrictions, introducing new safety rules. Let's dive into what's changed on airline battery restrictions and how you can ensure a hassle-free journey.

In this blog:

• New Airline Battery Restrictions: Why the Sudden Change?
• Airlines That Updated Their Battery Restrictions
• Quick-Reference Table for Airplane Battery Rules
• Packing Tips to Avoid Issues

Let’s get started! 

New Airline Battery Restrictions: Why the Sudden Change?

Lithium batteries, which power our beloved gadgets, have been under scrutiny after incidents of overheating and fires on planes. In 2024, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration reported an average of three overheating incidents every two weeks, up from just under one per week in 2018. These alarming stats have prompted airlines to tighten airplane battery rules to enhance passenger safety.

Airlines That Updated Their Battery Restrictions

Several airlines have recently adjusted their policies due to safety concerns, tightening airline battery restrictions for passengers carrying power banks. Below is a breakdown of the latest updates and what they mean for travelers.

• Air Busan: After a January incident where a plane caught fire during departure preparations—possibly due to a power bank—Air Busan now requires passengers to keep power banks on their person, rather than in overhead bins.
• Singapore Airlines and Scoot: Starting April 1, passengers are prohibited from charging power banks via onboard USB ports or using them to charge personal devices during flights.
• EVA Air and China Airlines: Since March 1, these airlines have banned the use and charging of power banks during flights.
• Thai Airways: As of March 15, the use and charging of power banks and portable batteries are prohibited during flights.
• Air Astana: From March 13, charging power banks or using them to charge other devices during flights is prohibited. Passengers must keep lithium batteries, external batteries, and e-cigarettes in hand luggage placed in the overhead compartments.
• Cathay Pacific, HK Express, and Hong Kong Airlines: Effective April 7, passengers must store power banks under their seat or in the seat pocket in front of them; storing them in overhead lockers is prohibited.
• AirAsia: Effective April 1, passengers may carry power banks not exceeding 100 watt-hours (Wh) or 20,000 milliampere-hours (mAh). Power banks between 100Wh and 160Wh require airline approval at the check-in counter. Onboard, power banks must be stored in the seat pocket or under the seat and are prohibited in the overhead compartment. Using power banks or charging devices during flights is not permitted.
• Batik Air: Passengers are allowed to carry a maximum of two power banks, each not exceeding 100Wh or 20,000mAh. These must be kept on their person at all times and are prohibited in checked baggage. The use of power banks inside the cabin is strictly prohibited.
• Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG): This includes Malaysia Airlines, Firefly, and MASwings. These airlines have prohibited the use of power banks during flights. Passengers must carry them on their person at all times.

While the following carriers have recently updated their policies, these are not the only ones making changes. Many airlines continue to revise their airplane battery rules, so it’s essential to check with your airline before traveling to avoid any surprises.

Quick-Reference Table for Airplane Battery Rules

To make it easier to understand the latest airline battery restrictions, here’s a quick-reference table outlining the updated policies from various airlines. Keep in mind that rules may vary, so always check with your airline before flying.

Packing Tips to Avoid Issues

To breeze through security and stay compliant with airline battery restrictions:

1. Carry-On Only: Always pack power banks in your carry-on luggage. They're typically prohibited in checked baggage due to fire risks.
2. Keep It Handy: Some airlines now require power banks to be kept on your person, not in overhead bins. Check your airline's specific guidelines.
3. Avoid In-Flight Charging: With the new airplane battery rules, it's best to charge your devices before boarding. Many airlines are banning the use of power banks during flights.
4. Know the Limits: Familiarize yourself with your airline's watt-hour (Wh) limits for lithium batteries to ensure your power bank is compliant.
5. Use Airline Power: Whenever possible, use the in-seat power outlets provided by the airline instead of your power bank.

Stay Updated on Airline Battery Restrictions

Airline policies can change, so it's wise to check the latest guidelines before your trip. For a comprehensive overview of power bank regulations and tips for air travel, check out our detailed guide here: Power Banks and Air Travel: What's Allowed and What's Not.

Safe travels, and may your devices always be charged (within the rules, of course)!

Sources: 

• What are the airlines that have updated their lithium battery policies? - Reuters
• Why are a growing number of airlines banning power banks on flights? - CNN

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum mAh battery allowed on flights?

Most airlines permit power banks up to 27,000mAh, provided they have a nominal voltage of 3.7V. However, battery restrictions are typically measured in watt-hours (Wh), with a common limit of 100Wh. Some airlines allow batteries up to 160Wh with prior approval. It’s always best to verify specific airline regulations before bringing a power bank on board.

What type of battery is not allowed on airplanes?

Certain batteries pose safety risks and are restricted in checked baggage. These include:

• Loose lithium-ion batteries exceeding 160Wh
• Uninstalled lithium metal batteries
• E-cigarettes and vape devices

Such items must be carried in your cabin bag, and additional restrictions may apply depending on the airline. Always check their latest guidelines to avoid travel issues.

How do I know if I have a lithium battery?

Lithium-based batteries come in different types, and you can identify them based on specific labels or markings on the battery itself.

Types of Lithium Batteries and How to Identify Them

• Lithium Primary (Non-Rechargeable) – Often labeled as "Lithium" or may have an alphanumeric code starting with "CR###."
• Lithium-Ion (Rechargeable) – May include markings such as "Rechargeable," "Li-Ion," "Lithium Ion," or "LiPo" (short for lithium polymer).
• Button/Coin Cell Batteries – If non-rechargeable, they usually start with "CR###," while rechargeable versions may begin with "LIR###."

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