More airlines are tightening restrictions on power banks after a dramatic mid-air fire prompted an emergency evacuation.
The incident, which took place in January aboard an Air Busan flight, was caused by a power bank that ignited in an overhead bin, severely damaging the aircraft.
Thankfully, all passengers were safely evacuated, but the scare has pushed multiple airlines to reevaluate their policies on lithium battery-powered devices in both carry-on and checked luggage.
Air Busan Bans Power Banks Entirely
In response to the fire, Air Busan has taken one of the strictest stances in the industry by banning power banks on all flights. This sweeping measure aims to eliminate any risk of lithium battery-related incidents.
Eva Air and China Airlines Introduce New Restrictions
Starting March 1, 2025, Eva Air and China Airlines will enforce stricter regulations on power banks. Eva Air will prohibit passengers from using or charging power banks during flights.
Additionally, spare lithium batteries and power banks will not be allowed in checked luggage and must be carried in the cabin with precautions to prevent compression or damage.
Australia’s Already Tough Rules on Power Banks
Australian airlines have long had strict guidelines on lithium batteries and power banks.
Qantas bans luggage with non-removable lithium batteries and requires passengers to keep power banks out of checked baggage. Any detached power banks must be carried in carry-on luggage.
Virgin Australia follows similar protocols, requiring all spare batteries, including power banks, to be stored in carry-on baggage with protective measures to prevent short circuits.
The Virgin Australia website says: “Spare/loose batteries (including power banks/packs must be in carry-on baggage only and must be protected against short circuit by, placing in its original retail packaging, placing each battery in a separate plastic bag or protective pouch or insulating terminals by taping over exposed terminals.”
Growing Concerns Over Lithium Battery Fires
Fires caused by lithium batteries on aircraft are a growing safety concern. These batteries, which power everything from laptops to portable chargers, can overheat and catch fire if damaged, overcharged, or subjected to pressure changes.
With travelers increasingly reliant on portable electronics, airlines are expected to introduce even stricter measures in the near future. To avoid travel disruptions, passengers should check their airline’s specific power bank policies before heading to the airport.
