The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) has recently introduced new rules restricting the use and carriage of power banks on airplanes. These measures are designed to mitigate the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, which can pose significant fire hazards if damaged, overheated, or improperly handled.
Lithium-ion batteries, the core component of most power banks, are known to present fire risks. Incidents of overheating and combustion have led aviation authorities to adopt stricter safety measures. Fires caused by these batteries can be extremely intense and difficult to extinguish, especially in confined spaces such as aircraft cabins. By limiting the number of power banks and prohibiting their recharge during flights, ICAO aims to reduce the likelihood of thermal incidents.
Power banks must be carried in hand luggage, not checked baggage, and devices over 160Wh are prohibited, while those between 100Wh and 160Wh require airline approval. Additionally, passengers aren’t allowed to recharge power banks during flights, except for airline crew who may use them for operational needs.
To pack power banks safely, keep them in your carry-on luggage and store them in a protective case to prevent damage. Avoid extreme temperatures and ensure they’re fully charged before travel. Label them with your contact info and check they’re within the allowed capacity limits. Keep them accessible for security checks and declare them if required.
Additional precautions include avoiding storage with metal objects to prevent short circuits and opting for power banks with built-in safety features such as overcharge protection.
The new restrictions have sparked mixed reactions, with some passengers understanding the safety concerns about lithium battery fires, while others are caught off guard, highlighting a need for better airline communication. Travellers are adapting by charging devices before flights and using in-seat USB ports, but some are frustrated by the ban on in-flight power bank use, especially on long-haul flights.
Airlines are taking a cautious approach with power banks: you can carry them, but don’t use them to charge devices in-flight. Store them in your pocket or under your seat, not in overhead bins, so crew can access them quickly in emergencies. You’re limited to two power banks each, and charging them during flights is a no-go.
The ICAO’s restrictions on power banks reflect a growing emphasis on passenger safety in aviation. While the rules may cause inconvenience, they are a proactive step to prevent potentially catastrophic incidents. Travellers can adapt by preparing devices before boarding and following safe packing practices. Airlines, meanwhile, must continue to improve communication to ensure passengers are aware of these important regulations.
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Ekelem Airhihen, an accredited mediator, has an MBA from the Lagos Business School. He is a member, ACI Airport Non-aeronautical Revenue Activities Committee; his interests are in market research, customer experience and performance measurement, negotiation, strategy and data and business analytics. He can be reached on ekyair@yahoo.com and +2348023125396 (WhatsApp only).
