As summer travel plans take shape, passengers should be aware of new airline regulations regarding lithium-ion power banks. These portable battery chargers, essential for keeping devices charged on the go, are now subject to stricter guidelines due to safety concerns.

New Safety Guidelines

Following several incidents involving smoke or fire, both U.S. and international aviation authorities have tightened rules for carrying lithium-ion power banks on flights. These devices must now be packed in carry-on luggage, not checked baggage, to allow crew members to quickly address any potential issues.

Travelers are generally allowed to bring two power banks with a capacity of up to 100 watt hours each without needing airline approval. This capacity is sufficient for multiple phone charges. For larger batteries, such as those used in professional equipment, airline approval is required.

Understanding Battery Capacity

The Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) advises that newer lithium-ion batteries should display their watt-hour rating. For those with capacity listed in milliampere hours (mAH), passengers can calculate the watt-hour rating by dividing the mAH by 1,000 to convert to ampere hours, then multiplying by the device’s voltage, typically 3.7 volts.

Incidents and Precautions

Recent incidents underscore the importance of these regulations. A notable event occurred in January 2025 when a fire on an Air Busan plane in South Korea led to the evacuation of 176 passengers. The FAA has reported nine lithium battery-related incidents this year, six involving power banks.

In one case, an Easyjet flight diverted to Rome after a passenger reported a power bank in checked luggage. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) emphasizes that lithium batteries in cargo holds are dangerous because crew members cannot easily address fires or smoke.

Onboard Safety Measures

Airlines have implemented strict rules for handling power banks in the cabin. Passengers must keep them accessible, such as in a seatback pocket, and avoid using them to charge devices during the flight. If a device slips into a seat crevice, passengers should alert crew members rather than attempt retrieval themselves.

Experts recommend inspecting power banks for damage and avoiding low-quality products from unknown manufacturers. Damaged or defective batteries pose a risk of overheating and fire.

Travelers should also check with their airlines for specific rules, as some carriers, like Southwest Airlines, have additional restrictions. Staying informed ensures a safer and smoother travel experience.

Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.