Charging your phone mid-flight could soon be a thing of the past. Seven Asian airlines are cracking down on how passengers can use portable power banks onboard – after a series of fires were caused by overheating power banks.
At least seven international carriers have now banned their use during flights. Singapore Airlines and Scoot (Singaporean low-cost airline) introduced new restrictions from 1 April, joining a growing list that includes China Airlines, Thai Airways, Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, and EVA Air.
Korean Air and Asiana have taken it a step further by banning power banks from overhead bins, requiring passengers to keep them at their seat at all times.
FCM Travel, of Flight Centre Travel Group, is urging business travellers in particular to stay informed. “We’ve seen at least seven airlines begin introducing restrictions on portable charging devices, and I expect others will follow,” said Renos Rologas, FCM Travel general manager ANZ.
“Safety is the priority, but there are strategies to make sure you stay connected, especially on long-haul flights.” Under international aviation rules, portable chargers must already be kept in carry-on bags – never checked baggage – but these new restrictions go further in preventing usage during flight.
Tips by FCM Travel to stay powered up mid-flight Board with fully charged devices Use airport charging ports before departure Carry USB-compatible charging cables Consider tablets over laptops for onboard use Use in-flight entertainment systems where available Avoid unknown public USB ports to reduce cybersecurity risks Only travel with certified, reputable power banks
