In a move aimed at bolstering in-flight safety, Singapore Airlines and Thai Airways have announced a new ban on the use and charging of power banks during flights. These devices, classified as lithium batteries, are known to pose fire risks due to their potential to generate extreme heat.
As per International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations, passengers are currently restricted to carrying no more than two spare lithium batteries with a watt-hour rating exceeding 100Wh, and these must be stored in carry-on baggage. However, the latest updates from these airlines introduce stricter measures.
From 1st April, Singapore Airlines passengers will no longer be allowed to charge their personal devices using power banks, nor will they be able to charge the power banks themselves via onboard USB ports. Power banks will still be permitted in carry-on luggage, provided their capacity is under 160Wh, but they are strictly banned from checked baggage. The airline explained that these changes align with its priority to maintain customer safety while complying with IATA’s Dangerous Goods Regulations.
Thai Airways has implemented similar measures, effective 15th March. Passengers are now prohibited from using or charging power banks during flights. The airline reaffirmed its compliance with IATA safety guidelines, noting that passengers may carry spare batteries in their cabin baggage under specific conditions. Battery capacities under 100Wh are allowed, while capacities between 100Wh and 160Wh require adherence to strict quantity limits. Batteries exceeding 160Wh remain prohibited. Checked-in luggage may not contain spare batteries of any kind.
Both airlines have cited passenger safety as the primary motivation behind these measures. This follows heightened global scrutiny on the risks associated with lithium batteries during air travel.