Major airlines like Jet2, British Airways (BA), and easyJet have set strict limits on the number of electronic devices passengers can bring on board flights. The surge in technology reliant on lithium-powered batteries, such as smartphones, electric toothbrushes, and e-bikes, has led to safety concerns.
Recent data reveals that fire departments in the UK are responding to lithium-ion battery fires every five hours. In response to safety worries, certain airlines have banned specific devices. For instance, several airlines have prohibited power banks due to fire risk. Airlines like Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Emirates, and Cathay Pacific have all implemented bans on power banks and devices like AirPods.
While regulations from major UK carriers are not as stringent, there are restrictions on the number of batteries and electronics passengers can carry. Each traveler is permitted a maximum of 15 lithium battery-powered Personal Electronic Devices (PEDs) in their hand luggage, including items like phones, laptops, and watches. These devices must be packaged securely to prevent damage.
Passengers are allowed to carry up to 20 spare or loose lithium batteries, provided they are individually protected against short circuits. Additionally, travelers can bring a maximum of two power banks per person, not exceeding 160Wh, as long as they are safeguarded against short circuits and are not charged during the flight.
British Airways limits lithium-ion batteries to 100Wh or less for general travel, with up to four spare batteries allowed in cabin baggage. Power banks are restricted to carry-on luggage, with a maximum of two permitted. EasyJet requires all lithium-ion batteries, spare batteries, and power banks to be carried in cabin hand luggage only, with a general limit of 100Wh per battery. Ryanair strictly allows lithium batteries and power banks up to 100Wh in carry-on luggage only and prohibits them in checked baggage. Wizz Air also restricts spare lithium batteries and power banks to carry-on baggage, with a maximum capacity of 100Wh per unit without special approval.
Adhering to these regulations ensures passenger safety and compliance with airline policies regarding the transport of batteries and electronic devices.