Starting next month, passengers flying with major international airlines, including Singapore Airlines (SIA) and its subsidiary Scoot, will be prohibited from charging their devices using power banks during flights. Additionally, charging power banks through onboard USB ports will also be disallowed. This decision aligns with safety regulations set by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), which classifies power banks as lithium batteries.
Passengers are allowed to carry power banks with a capacity of up to 100 watt-hours (Wh) without requiring special permission. However, those with capacities between 100Wh and 160Wh necessitate approval, while power banks exceeding 160Wh are strictly prohibited on flights. SIA has emphasised that power banks must be stored in cabin baggage and not checked in, underscoring their commitment to passenger safety.
Thai Airways has also announced a similar ban on power banks, effective from Saturday, reinforcing the industry’s focus on prioritising safety for both passengers and crew members. Furthermore, airlines in South Korea and Taiwan have adopted similar restrictions regarding the use of power banks.
Airlines are urging passengers to understand the necessity of these measures, citing safety as a primary concern. In light of these changes, travellers are advised to prepare accordingly to avoid any inconvenience during their journeys.