In recent years, incidents of power banks (commonly known as "charging bricks") catching fire on flights have become increasingly common. Notably, in early 2025, fire-related accidents occurred on flights operated by Korea’s Air Busan and Hong Kong Airlines, drawing significant global attention from the aviation industry. As a result, regulations concerning the carrying and use of power banks have been tightened. To enhance aviation safety, Hong Kong’s Civil Aviation Department officially implemented stricter rules starting April 7, 2025, prohibiting the use of power banks for charging or storing them in overhead compartments during flights. This article summarizes the new regulations and important precautions to help you travel with peace of mind.

Key Points of New In-Flight Power Bank Rules

1. Must Be Carried Onboard, Checked-In Prohibited

All power banks, camera lithium batteries, and removable rechargeable batteries must be carried in hand luggage and cannot be placed in checked baggage. When checking in or dropping off luggage, ensure no power banks or removable batteries are in your checked bags. Additionally, for popular smart luggage, remove the battery before bringing it onboard as carry-on luggage.

2. Restrictions on Capacity and Quantity

Power bank capacity is measured in watt-hours (Wh). According to IATA regulations, most airlines prohibit power banks over 160Wh. For those between 100Wh and 160Wh, some airlines require prior declaration. It is recommended to use power banks that clearly state the Wh rating to avoid customs confiscation.

Conversion formula:
Wh = Voltage (V) × milliamp-hours (mAh) ÷ 1000
Example: A power bank rated at 3.7V and 10,000mAh equates to 3.7 × 10,000 ÷ 1000 = 37Wh

Different airlines have varying limits on the number of power banks allowed. Please consult your airline’s official website (see summary table below).

3. Must Be Sealed Before Boarding

To prevent in-flight use, some airlines (especially those flying to South Korea) require passengers to seal the charging ports with tape before boarding. Prepare in advance to avoid boarding delays.

4. Cannot Be Stored in Overhead Compartments

During the flight, power banks must not be placed in overhead bins. They should be stored in carry-on bags under the seat in front of you. If seated in an emergency exit row, consult flight attendants for proper storage—typically in your clothing pocket or pants pocket.

5. Use and Charging Prohibited During Flight

Passengers are not allowed to use power banks to charge devices or recharge the power banks themselves during the entire flight, including takeoff, cruising, and landing.

6. Wireless Charging Also Prohibited

Whether wired or wireless charging (e.g. MagSafe), both are considered violations. Do not attempt to charge during the flight.

7. Battery is Clearly Labeled

If you carry lithium batteries (including power banks), you must ensure that the batteries are clearly labeled and comply with international safety standards. Power banks with the unclear marking are not allowed on board. If the power bank is too old and the label is unclear, the airline may also refuse to accept it on board.

Airline-Specific Guidelines Overview*

Airline	Spare Battery Quantity	Battery Handling	Power Bank Regulation
Cathay Pacific	≤100Wh: 20 100Wh-160Wh: maximum 2	original packing adhesive tape over exposed terminals separate plastic bag or protective pouch	must be individually protected to prevent short circuits spare batteries only in carry-on 👉 More Details
HK Express	≤100Wh: 20 100Wh-160Wh: maximum 2	original packing adhesive tape over exposed terminals separate plastic bag or protective pouch	protected against short circuits contact airline for >100Wh approval 👉 More Details
Hong Kong Airlines	≤100Wh: 20 100Wh-160Wh: maximum 2	original packing adhesive tape over exposed terminals separate plastic bag or protective pouch	spare batteries must be in carry-on, protected from short circuits 👉 More Details
Greater Bay Airlines	≤100Wh: 20 100Wh-160Wh: maximum 2	original packing adhesive tape over exposed terminals separate plastic bag or protective pouch	individually packed to prevent short circuits 👉 More Details
China Airlines	≤100Wh: 20 100Wh-160Wh: maximum 2	must be insulated or properly packaged	must be powered off during flight devices must be secured to prevent accidental activation 👉 More Details
EVA Air	≤100Wh: 20 100Wh-160Wh: maximum 2	original packing adhesive tape over exposed terminals separate plastic bag	must be placed in fire-resistant bag (provided by crew) during flight fire-resistant bags mandatory for in-flight storage, contact airline for >100Wh approval 👉 More Details
Japan Airlines	≤100Wh: no limit stated 100Wh-160Wh: maximum 2	original packing adhesive tape over exposed terminals separate plastic bag or protective pouch	protected against short circuits 👉 More Details
All Nippon Airways (ANA)	≤100Wh: no limit stated 100Wh-160Wh: maximum 2	original packing adhesive tape over exposed terminals separate plastic bag or protective pouch	must be individually protected, contact airline for >100Wh approval 👉 More Details
Korean Air	≤100Wh: 5 100Wh-160Wh: maximum 2	adhesive tape over exposed terminals separate plastic bag or protective pouch	individually packed to prevent short circuits 👉 More Details
Jeju Air	≤100Wh: 5 100Wh-160Wh: maximum 2	adhesive tape over exposed terminals separate plastic bag or protective pouch	spare batteries must be in carry-on, protected from short circuits 👉 More Details
Singapore Airlines	≤100Wh: 20 100Wh-160Wh: maximum 2	original packing adhesive tape over exposed terminals separate plastic bag or protective pouch	protected against short circuits, contact airline for approval 👉 More Details
Qatar Airways	≤100Wh: 20 100Wh-160Wh: maximum 2	original packing adhesive tape over exposed terminals separate plastic bag or protective pouch	must be individually protected to prevent short circuits 👉 More Details
Starlux Airlines	≤100Wh: 20 100Wh-160Wh: maximum 2		must be powered off; no charging during flight protected against short circuits 👉 More Details

*information updated in April 2025, please visit airline’s official website for the latest updates

Recommended Power Banks on Flights

Product	Features
BELKIN BoostCharge 20,000mAH Power Bank	up to 78 hours of power come with a USB-A to USB-C cable that can start charging right out of the box LED battery indicator lights show when it’s time to charge or when you’re good to go power 3 devices plug into portable power for up to three devices at the same time with its USB-C port and 2 USB-A ports
Xiaomi 165W Power Bank 10000mAh (Integrated Cable) Power Bank	165W MAX 120W(USB-C integrated cable)+45W(USB-C) color screen battery display up to 90W self charging capability multiple protections: overcharge protection, high temperature protection, short circuit protection
Anker 733 10000mAh 65W 2-in-1 Power Bank	support Max. 65W USB-C PowerIQ 3.0 (compatible with both Quick Charge and Power Delivery) for wall charger mode support Max. 30W USB-C PowerIQ 3.0 (compatible with both Quick Charge and Power Delivery) for portable charger mode support Max. 22.5W USB-A equipped with 2 USB-C & 1 USB-A, total 65W output GaN technology makes charger smaller without sacrificing a drop of power efficient heat dissipation ActiveShield 2.0 Safety System provides continuous temperature monitoring and output control to protect your connected device
Xiaomi Magnetic Power Bank 6000mAh	15W Max wireless output low power charging for small gadgets foldable stand design

Alternative Charging Method on Board

When flying, passengers can use the charging ports at their seats, which typically require a USB Type-A charging cable. Additionally, as aircraft models are updated, airlines are increasingly adding power outlets in the seating area, with some even equipped with USB-A and USB-C ports, making it more convenient for passengers to charge their electronic devices during the flight.

Product	Features
haha TRAVEL 5-in-1 Charging Cable (1.2m)	[Fortress Exclusive] transparent White 5 in 1 Data Charging Cable, the length 1.2M twisted cable core enhance transmission stability strong protection type-C supports PD3.0 fast charge up to 3A output / USB supports QC3.0 fast charge output
XPOWER ACX3 2 In 3 Out Charging Cable	3 output: (Micro USB, Type-C & Lightning), 2 input: (Type-C & USB-A) charge 3 devices simultaneously support 5V/2.4A (Micro USB & Lightning) or 5V/3A (Type-C) high speed output(max) high quality pure copper cable
APPLE Lightning to USB Cable - 1M (2024)	connect device with Lightning connector to computer’s USB port for syncing and charging connect to the Apple USB Power Adapter for convenient charging from a power point
BELKIN BOOST CHARGE Braided USB-C to USB-A Cable	USB-IF certified to ensure compatibility tested to withstand 10,000+ bends for ultimate longevity

While power banks are convenient, their use and transportation on flights are now strictly regulated. When planning your trip, be sure to understand the relevant rules to avoid delays or confiscation. With proper preparation and adherence to airline guidelines, you can still travel safely with your power bank and enjoy a worry-free journey. Before departure, double-check that your power bank complies with the rules, and refer to your airline’s website for the most up-to-date information.

Key Points of New In-Flight Power Bank Rules

1. Must Be Carried Onboard, Checked-In Prohibited

2. Restrictions on Capacity and Quantity

3. Must Be Sealed Before Boarding

4. Cannot Be Stored in Overhead Compartments

5. Use and Charging Prohibited During Flight

6. Wireless Charging Also Prohibited

7. Battery is Clearly Labeled

Airline-Specific Guidelines Overview*

Cathay Pacific

HK Express

Hong Kong Airlines

Greater Bay Airlines

China Airlines

EVA Air

Japan Airlines

All Nippon Airways (ANA)

Korean Air

Jeju Air

Singapore Airlines

Qatar Airways

Starlux Airlines

Recommended Power Banks on Flights

Alternative Charging Method on Board