If you’re a frequent flyer or a digital nomad, you probably never travel without your portable charger. But after a major airline incident earlier this year, new restrictions have come into force across several airlines in 2025, especially when it comes to using power banks on planes.
This guide will walk you through the current rules, the maximum battery size allowed, which airlines are affected, and what triggered the sudden policy changes.
How Big Can a Power Bank Be on a Plane?
Most airlines and aviation regulators base their rules on watt-hour (Wh) ratings rather than milliamp-hours (mAh). Here’s what’s allowed:
- Up to 100Wh (about 27,000mAh):
Allowed in carry-on luggage with no special permission needed.
Not allowed in checked baggage. - 100Wh to 160Wh:
Allowed in carry-on only with airline approval, usually limited to 2 units per passenger. - Over 160Wh:
Not allowed on commercial passenger flights.
Important: Power banks must always be in your carry-on, not your checked bag.
New 2025 Airline Bans on Power Bank Use During Flights
In response to recent safety concerns, many airlines have updated their policies—not just on carrying power banks, but also on using or charging them mid-flight.
Here are the latest restrictions (as of April 2025):
- Singapore Airlines & Scoot
Charging or using power banks in-flight is banned. - EVA Air & China Airlines
No use or charging of power banks during flight. - Thai Airways & AirAsia
Passengers may carry power banks, but cannot use or charge them while flying. - Cathay Pacific, HK Express & Hong Kong Airlines
Power banks must be stored under the seat.
Overhead bin storage and in-flight use are banned. - South Korean carriers (Korean Air, Asiana, Air Busan)
Overhead bin storage of power banks is banned.
No in-flight use or charging allowed.
Check with your specific airline before you travel, as these rules may be expanded or adjusted without much notice.
What Caused These New Rules?
On January 28, 2025, a serious incident occurred aboard an Air Busan flight in South Korea. A portable battery pack caught fire while the aircraft was still on the ground at Gimhae International Airport.
- The fire started in an overhead bin and quickly spread.
- 176 people were onboard; seven were injured.
- The plane’s fuselage was badly damaged, and the aircraft was written off.
Investigators traced the fire to a faulty lithium-ion battery pack, likely stored improperly. The incident highlighted the risks of thermal runaway (a chain reaction that can cause lithium batteries to overheat and ignite).
As a result, South Korea’s aviation authority swiftly introduced stricter rules, which have now been adopted by many other airlines around the world.
Travel Tips for Power Banks in 2025
To avoid delays or confiscation, follow these tips:
- Always pack your power bank in your carry-on, never in checked baggage.
- Store it under your seat or in your personal item, not in the overhead compartment.
- Do not use or charge your power bank during the flight, unless clearly allowed.
- Check the capacity (in Wh or mAh) before you fly.
- If it’s over 100Wh, you may need airline approval.
- Ensure the rated capacity is clearly printed on the device
- Buy from reputable brands to reduce the risk of malfunction.
Final Words
Airlines are taking no chances when it comes to safety, and it’s up to travellers to stay informed. Before you head to the airport, double-check your power bank’s size, store it properly in your carry-on, and avoid using it during the flight unless your airline says it’s okay.
If possible, try to charge your devices at the airport before the flight and investigate if your flight offers in-seat USB power.
Rules may vary slightly between carriers, so it’s always best to check with your airline prior.
Have a great journey and adventure.