As international travel continues to rebound, passengers flying to and from Asia are encountering stricter rules regarding power banks and external batteries. Recent incidents have prompted airlines across the region to tighten regulations, ensuring passenger safety remains a top priority. From banning in-flight use to requiring special storage methods, these new policies demand travelers stay informed to avoid disruptions at the gate or during security checks.

Avoid Disruptions and Stay Prepared for Your Next Flight

Understanding the Risks of Faulty Power Banks

In recent years, the dangers posed by poorly manufactured or improperly handled power banks have become increasingly apparent. According to data compiled by aviation authorities, there were 89 reported incidents involving power banks sparking or overheating on flights in 2024 alone. This alarming trend reached a critical point on January 28, 2025, when an Air Busan flight narrowly avoided catastrophe after a fire erupted in the cabin shortly after departure from Gimhae International Airport in South Korea. The incident, which resulted in smoke and flames filling the aircraft, was attributed to a passenger’s power bank stored in the overhead bin. While all 176 passengers and crew members safely evacuated, several sustained injuries. Following this harrowing event, South Korea's Aviation and Railway Accident Investigation Board launched an inquiry, reinforcing the need for stringent safety measures.The implications of such incidents extend far beyond individual flights. They highlight the urgent necessity for standardized protocols governing the transportation of power banks aboard commercial aircraft. Although no global consensus exists on their usage or storage, many airlines have independently implemented guidelines aimed at mitigating risks. For instance, passengers are advised to limit their carry-on power banks to those with capacities under 100 Wh (equivalent to 27,000 mAh). Furthermore, incorporating additional protective measures—such as wrapping batteries with insulated tape or placing them in transparent plastic bags—can significantly enhance safety while traveling through regions where regulations may vary.

Regulatory Changes Across Asia

Travelers embarking on journeys within Asia should anticipate heightened scrutiny regarding power bank carriage and utilization. Since March 2025, numerous countries throughout the continent have bolstered their regulatory frameworks to address growing concerns about onboard safety. Notably, airlines such as AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, and various Hong Kong-based carriers now prohibit storing power banks in overhead bins. Instead, these devices must remain stowed beneath seats or securely positioned within seatback pockets throughout the duration of the flight.South Korea has taken particularly aggressive steps to safeguard its skies. Passengers transiting through Korean airports must encase their power banks in plastic bags or apply adhesive tape prior to boarding. Moreover, these items undergo meticulous inspection by security personnel, necessitating their removal from luggage for separate screening. Such rigorous procedures underscore the gravity with which authorities regard potential hazards associated with portable charging solutions.Other nations in the region have followed suit, imposing similar restrictions on power bank usage during flights. Major Taiwanese carriers, Chinese airlines, Air Astana, Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Scoot all enforce bans on using power banks mid-air. Despite these limitations, passengers retain access to alternative charging options provided directly by the aircraft, including USB-A, USB-C ports, and traditional electrical outlets where available. However, ultra-low-cost carriers often lack such amenities, compelling travelers to rely on conventional entertainment sources like books or magazines for long-haul flights.

Practical Tips for Compliant Travel

To ensure seamless passage through airport checkpoints and adherence to evolving airline policies, preparation is key. Before setting foot in any Asian terminal, thoroughly review your carrier’s specific requirements concerning power bank transport. Adhering strictly to capacity limits and employing recommended packaging techniques will minimize the likelihood of complications. Additionally, familiarize yourself with permissible locations for storing these devices during transit, whether that entails securing them under your seat or utilizing designated pocket spaces.Beyond mere compliance, fostering awareness among fellow passengers contributes positively toward maintaining overall flight safety. Encourage others around you to follow established guidelines diligently, recognizing that collective vigilance plays a pivotal role in preventing potentially catastrophic scenarios. By prioritizing knowledge acquisition and proactive behavior, every traveler can play a part in cultivating a safer environment for everyone sharing the skies above Asia.