Lithium-ion battery-powered powerbanks prohibited on flights, explained: The potential for these devices to ignite fires
In light of the rising concerns over lithium-ion battery safety, global regulations for carrying and using power banks on airplanes have tightened significantly. Starting from October 1, 2025, power banks are now allowed only in carry-on baggage and are strictly prohibited in checked luggage.
Airlines and regulatory bodies such as the FAA, EASA, ICAO, and IATA have standardized these rules based on the power bank's watt-hour (Wh) capacity. Power banks under 100 Wh can typically be carried without prior airline approval, while power banks with a capacity over 100 Wh require airline approval. Power banks over 160 Wh are generally prohibited on passenger flights.
Recent incidents of lithium-ion battery fires onboard, including a fire on a Virgin flight in July 2025, have prompted these stringent measures. Airlines worldwide are emphasising passenger education and safety to minimise fire risks related to power banks during flights.
Starting October 1, 2025, Emirates and several other major airlines have further restricted in-flight use of power banks. Using any power bank onboard to charge devices is banned, and charging the power bank itself using aircraft power is not permitted. Passengers can carry only one power bank below 100 Wh. Power banks must be kept within reach, such as in the seat pocket or under the seat, and cannot be stored in overhead compartments. All power banks must have clear labeling of their capacity for security screening.
Lithium-ion battery cells consist of a cathode, an anode, a separator, and a liquid organic electrolyte, with the electrolyte being highly flammable. A short circuit generates heat beyond what the battery can dissipate, which can cause the separator to melt or collapse, leading to more short circuits and the release of volatile and flammable gases. This dangerous state, known as thermal runaway, produces intense heat, flames, toxic fumes, and sometimes explosions.
Thermal runaway can be triggered by extreme temperatures, overcharging or prolonged charging, internal short circuits due to manufacturing defects or lithium plating, mechanical damage, or exposure to moisture. Fires caused by lithium-ion batteries are difficult to extinguish due to the production of oxygen and flammable gases internally.
Improved battery design, stricter quality control, better user awareness, regulatory tightening, and firefighting innovation are all part of the path forward to ensure the safe use of lithium-ion batteries and power banks.
- In the realm of general-news, there have been growing concerns about the environment due to the rising incidents of lithium-ion battery fires, particularly on airplanes.
- To address these concerns, the education sector has become increasingly focused on safety measures regarding power banks, with airlines worldwide emphasizing the importance of passenger education to minimize fire risks related to these devices.
- In the realm of science and technology, researchers are working to improve battery designs and implement stricter quality controls to mitigate the risks of dangerous conditions like thermal runaway, which can lead to fires and explosions.
- Businesses in the environmental sector are also investing in firefighting innovation, as part of the overall effort to ensure the safe use of lithium-ion batteries and power banks in various settings, including air travel.
