.jpg)
International civil aviation authorities have recently enacted new safety guidelines regulating the carriage of lithium battery power banks on international flights. Implemented across all 193 member states of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), these regulations restrict passengers to carrying only two power banks in the cabin and prohibit charging them during flights.
The new rules come in response to a rising number of lithium battery-related incidents onboard commercial aircraft, including fires and device destructions. Notably, a fire involving a power bank on Air China Flight CA139 in October 2025 and the complete destruction of an Air Busan A321 earlier that year underscored the potential danger posed by large quantities of portable batteries in passenger cabins. These incidents have prompted aviation safety regulators to adopt uniform standards to prevent future hazards.
Industry Response and Safety Measures
Major airlines such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Air India, Lufthansa, Cathay Pacific, and British Airways have already begun implementing these regulations. Passengers must comply with wattage limits, with devices under 100 Wh generally permitted, those between 100 Wh and 160 Wh requiring airline approval, and batteries over 160 Wh being banned. All power banks must be carried in hand luggage to ensure they are accessible in case of an emergency. These measures reflect the ongoing efforts to mitigate risks associated with lithium batteries, which lack thermal management and monitoring systems, making them particularly hazardous when damaged or defective.
"The international standardization of power bank regulations is vital for aviation safety," said Josh Wood, Safety and Service Manager at airlineratings.com. "Given the widespread use of lithium batteries, these rules significantly reduce the risk of in-flight fires and protect passengers and crew alike."
Travelers are encouraged to always check airline-specific policies prior to flying, but the new global standards mark a significant step forward in aviation safety. As these rules are adopted worldwide, the aviation industry continues to enhance procedures to ensure passenger safety and operational integrity amidst the growing prevalence of portable electronic devices.
