Before embarking on your overseas vacation this summer, it is essential to be aware of the lesser-known regulation regarding electronic devices that differs across airlines.
For many travelers, including a power bank in their packing list is a priority, whether for use at the airport or during sightseeing in a new destination. However, there are stringent guidelines for bringing this handy gadget on board.
Earlier this year, the International Civil Aviation Organization updated its regulations concerning passengers carrying power banks, lithium cells, or batteries on any aircraft. These changes, effective from March 27, impose restrictions on how travelers can pack and utilize their power banks, including a limit on the quantity allowed onboard.
According to the ICAO’s amended rules, power banks have been associated with safety hazards onboard planes. Experts from the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) have cautioned that lithium batteries in power banks pose a risk due to the potential of “thermal runaway,” a situation where a battery experiences a rapid and uncontrollable temperature increase, possibly resulting in fires, explosions, and toxic fume emissions.
Most airlines, in compliance with the International Civil Aviation Organization guidelines, permit passengers to carry two power banks per person on board. However, these power banks cannot be used during the flight and must be carried in hand luggage.
While airlines generally allow two power banks onboard, each airline also specifies additional regulations, such as the permitted watt-hours and the condition of the devices. Therefore, it is crucial to review the specific power bank guidelines of your airline before departing for your trip.
For instance, Emirates Airlines restricts passengers to one power bank per person, which must be under 100 watt-hours, carried in hand luggage, and not used for charging devices during the flight. Emirates also mandates that the power bank should be stowed in the seat pocket or a bag under the seat in front. For comprehensive details on Emirates’ power bank rules, visit their website.
Meanwhile, Virgin Atlantic allows passengers to carry up to five power banks or spare batteries per person, depending on their watt-hour rating. These items must also be stored in hand luggage and cannot be utilized inflight. For specific information on Virgin Atlantic’s power bank restrictions, visit their website.