If you’re preparing for your summer travels and plan to bring a battery charger for your devices, understanding the current air travel rules is crucial. Portable lithium-ion battery chargers, or power banks, are practical for keeping your electronics charged while on the move. However, due to recent incidents involving smoke or fire, aviation authorities have introduced new guidelines. Airlines have also tightened rules for passengers.
The Rules for Power Banks on Flights
Travelers cannot pack lithium battery chargers in checked luggage. These must be placed in carry-on bags. Generally, you can bring two lithium-ion power banks with a 100-watt-hour capacity without needing approval from the airline. This capacity can recharge a cellphone multiple times.
For non-rechargeable lithium metal batteries, there is a two-gram lithium limit per battery. This limit covers most types of lithium batteries found in everyday devices, according to the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA).
The FAA advises that newer lithium-ion batteries should list their watt-hour (Wh) rating. If your battery’s capacity is shown in milliampere hours (mAH), some calculations are necessary. To convert, divide the mAH by 1,000 to find the amperes and then multiply by the voltage, typically 3.7 volts. For instance, a 10,000 mAH battery equates to 37 watt hours.
Bigger lithium-ion batteries, ranging from 100 to 160 watt-hours, such as those for professional equipment, require airline approval.
Safety Concerns with Lithium Power Banks
The risk of lithium battery fires is taken seriously by airlines after various incidents. A significant event occurred in January 2025 when a fire started on an Air Busan plane in South Korea, necessitating the evacuation of 176 passengers. The FAA reports nine lithium battery related incidents this year alone, with six involving power banks.
Power banks in a plane’s cargo hold are hazardous because smoke or fire could go undetected. In contrast, keeping them in the cabin allows crew to act quickly, using fire-resistant bags and insulated gloves to manage any overheating devices.
While the risk is low, the potential for harm is high. Lithium-ion batteries can store large energy amounts in a small space, and damage can cause thermal runaway, a reaction that generates heat and gases. Monitoring your power bank for damage, such as unusual heat while charging or bulging, is essential. Avoid buying low-quality power banks from unknown manufacturers, as they may lack quality controls, leading to defects.
In-Flight Regulations
Onboard, airlines enforce strict rules on handling power banks. These cannot be stored in overhead bins but should be easily accessible, such as in seatback pockets or under seats. Avoid using them to charge devices during the flight or recharging them with the aircraft’s power sockets.
If a battery device falls between seats, avoid moving the seat to retrieve it. Shifting a seat can crush the battery, leading to overheating or fire. Instead, alert cabin crew to secure the device safely.
Check with Your Airline
The FAA notes that specific airlines may have stricter rules than U.S. regulations. Always verify with your airline. For example, Southwest Airlines limited passengers to one charger per traveler as of April. Airlines typically provide detailed guidelines covering various battery-operated devices, such as laptops or e-cigarettes.
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