Are Power Banks Banned On Flights? | Essential Travel Facts

Understanding Airline Policies on Power Banks

Power banks have become indispensable travel companions, keeping smartphones, tablets, and other gadgets charged on the go. But when it comes to air travel, most passengers ask: Are power banks banned on flights? The short answer is no—they are not outright banned. However, airlines and aviation authorities impose specific rules to ensure safety due to the lithium-ion batteries inside these devices.

Lithium-ion batteries can pose fire hazards if damaged or improperly handled. This risk has led regulators like the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to set clear guidelines for carrying power banks on planes. Airlines typically allow power banks in carry-on luggage only, with restrictions based on watt-hours (Wh) or milliampere-hours (mAh).

Carry-On vs Checked Baggage: Where Can You Pack Power Banks?

One critical regulation is that power banks must never be placed in checked baggage. The reason is simple: if a battery overheats or catches fire in the cargo hold, it’s much harder to detect and manage than in the passenger cabin.

Passengers should always carry power banks in their carry-on bags or personal items. Flight attendants may request passengers to remove power banks from checked luggage during security screening or boarding. This rule applies across most airlines worldwide, including major carriers such as American Airlines, British Airways, Emirates, and more.

Battery Capacity Limits for Power Banks on Flights

The capacity of a power bank determines whether you can bring it aboard without special permissions. The key measurement used by airlines is watt-hour (Wh). If your power bank only displays milliampere-hours (mAh), you can convert it using this formula:

Watt-hours (Wh) = (mAh × Voltage) ÷ 1000

Most consumer power banks operate at around 3.7 volts.

Here’s how capacity affects what you can bring:

• Under 100 Wh: Allowed in carry-on luggage without airline approval.
• Between 100 Wh and 160 Wh: Allowed but require airline approval; usually limited to two devices.
• Above 160 Wh: Generally prohibited from passenger aircraft.

This means that typical power banks of up to about 27,000 mAh at 3.7V are usually fine without extra steps.

Why These Limits Exist

Lithium-ion batteries contain stored energy that—if short-circuited or damaged—can ignite spontaneously. Larger batteries hold more energy and pose greater risks if they malfunction mid-flight. Limiting capacity helps reduce the likelihood of dangerous incidents.

Airline Variations and Specific Rules

While IATA provides overarching guidelines, individual airlines may have their own policies that passengers must follow strictly.

For example:

Airline	Allowed Battery Capacity	Additional Notes
American Airlines	<100 Wh without approval; up to 160 Wh with approval	No power banks in checked baggage; max two devices between 100-160 Wh
Lufthansa	<100 Wh allowed; >100 Wh requires approval	No lithium-ion batteries in checked bags; carry-on only
Emirates	<100 Wh allowed freely; >100 Wh needs airline consent	Might inspect devices at security checkpoints
British Airways	<100 Wh permitted; >100 Wh needs permission up to 160 Wh limit	No spare batteries in checked luggage allowed at all

Always check your specific airline’s website before traveling since policies can update frequently.

The Role of Airport Security Checks for Power Banks

Security screening is another crucial stage where power banks come under scrutiny. Since lithium-ion batteries are considered dangerous goods, TSA agents and equivalent authorities worldwide scan devices carefully.

Passengers might be asked to:

• Power on the device to prove it functions normally.
• Remove the power bank from bags for separate screening.
• Show proof of battery capacity if questioned.

Failing to comply with these requests could result in confiscation of the device or denied boarding.

TSA Guidelines for Power Banks in the U.S.

The Transportation Security Administration clearly states that power banks are allowed only in carry-on baggage. They recommend labeling your device with its watt-hour rating if possible. TSA officers have discretion during screening and may prohibit suspicious items.

Dangers of Improperly Carried Power Banks On Flights

Bringing a damaged or counterfeit power bank onboard poses serious safety threats. Faulty batteries can overheat quickly and cause fires that jeopardize everyone’s safety.

Common issues include:

• Poor quality cells: Cheap knock-offs often lack proper safeguards against overheating.
• Dents or physical damage: Batteries crushed or dropped may short circuit internally.
• Lack of certification: Certified products meet international safety standards such as UL or CE marks.
• Improper storage: Loose batteries mixed with metal objects can spark fires.

To avoid these risks:

• Select reputable brands with safety certifications.
• Avoid using swollen or damaged units.
• Keep terminals covered or insulated when carrying spare batteries separately.
• If unsure about a device’s condition before flying, replace it rather than risk confiscation or danger onboard.

Packing Tips for Traveling With Power Banks Safely and Legally

Travelers should follow these practical steps:

• Check capacity: Know your device’s watt-hour rating before packing.
• Cary in carry-on only: Never place power banks in checked luggage.
• Labeled devices: If possible, keep original packaging showing battery specs handy for security checks.
• Avoid overloading outlets: Use one outlet per charger during layovers to prevent overheating.
• Treat spare batteries carefully: Store them separately with insulated covers if allowed by airline rules.
• If carrying multiple devices over limits: Contact your airline ahead of time for permission and guidance.
• Avoid using power banks during takeoff/landing if instructed by crew:This minimizes distractions during critical flight phases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Power Banks Banned On Flights Completely?

No, power banks are not completely banned on flights. Airlines and aviation authorities allow them under strict safety regulations, mainly focusing on battery capacity and carry-on rules to prevent fire hazards.

Are There Restrictions On Power Banks When Flying?

Yes, there are restrictions. Power banks must be carried in carry-on luggage only and cannot be placed in checked baggage. Additionally, limits on battery capacity apply to ensure safety during flights.

Are Power Banks With Large Battery Capacity Allowed On Flights?

Power banks under 100 watt-hours (Wh) are allowed without airline approval. Those between 100 Wh and 160 Wh require airline approval, while power banks above 160 Wh are generally prohibited on passenger aircraft.

Are Passengers Required To Declare Power Banks At Airport Security?

Passengers may be asked to remove power banks from their bags during security screening or boarding. This is a common practice to ensure compliance with airline safety regulations regarding lithium-ion batteries.

Are Power Banks Safer In Carry-On Bags Than Checked Baggage?

Yes, power banks must be kept in carry-on bags because if they overheat or catch fire, it’s easier for crew to detect and manage the situation in the passenger cabin than in the cargo hold.

The Impact of Varying International Regulations on Power Bank Travel

Regulations differ slightly by country due to varying aviation authority standards:

• EASA (Europe): The European Union Aviation Safety Agency aligns closely with IATA but sometimes has stricter enforcement depending on local laws.
• Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC): Tight restrictions exist for large-capacity batteries; some require advance approval.
• Civil Aviation Safety Authority (Australia): Lithium-ion batteries permitted under similar limits but subject to random inspections.
• Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore: Sophisticated screening processes with clear labeling requirements.

Travelers crossing multiple borders should research each destination’s rules carefully before flying.