Can You Carry and Use a Power Bank on a Plane?

Carrying a power bank on a plane is allowed. However, there are specific rules set out by official aviation safety expert authorities, such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), among others. These are regulated tightly due to the risks of lithium-ion battery fires.

In addition to these, many airlines also have their own policies regarding the onboard use of these devices. Failure to adhere to these rules may result in the power bank being confiscated and/or delayed boarding.

Is a Power Bank Allowed on a Plane?

Indeed, a power bank is allowed on a plane, but only as carry-on luggage. It can not be taken as checked baggage. For safety reasons, it must remain accessible.

• Power banks are allowed only in cabin baggage.
• These are not permitted in checked luggage.
• They must be for personal use only.
• They should be carried undamaged and clearly labeled.

Why Airlines Have Tightened Power Bank Rules?

Power bank equips lithium-ion batteries. Sometimes, these batteries can overheat, emit smoke, or ignite. Hence, airlines introduce stricter rules to reduce onboard fire risks. A few incidents leading to this decision are:

• Risk of battery thermal runaway
• Previous onboard smoke incidents
• Fires spread quickly in aircraft cabins
• Faster response is possible when carried in cabins

What is the Maximum Power Bank Capacity Allowed?

Usually, power banks are regulated by watt-hour (Wh) ratings. It determines whether they are freely allowed or not. Hence, they require airline approval.

• The capacity limits of a power bank on a plane should be up to 100 Wh.
• This limit is allowed without any approval.
• However, the devices from 100 to 160 Wh require approval from the carrier.
• Those with a limit above 160 Wh are prohibited on passenger aircraft.

Can You Use a Power Bank During a Flight?

Presently, most of the airlines have restricted/prohibited the in-flight use of power banks. They have their own regulations on how these devices must be stored in the cabin. Some of these rules are described below.

• In-flight charging is often not allowed.
• Charging the power bank itself is prohibited.
• Some airlines ban overhead bin storage.
• Under-seat or seat-pocket storage may be required.
• Cabin crew instructions must be followed.

Can I Charge my Phone with a Power Bank on a Plane?

In many cases, charging a phone with a power bank onboard is restricted or prohibited. It depends on the carrier’s safety policy.

• Presently, most airlines now ban in-flight power bank usage.
• A few major airlines imposing this rule are:
  • Emirates
  • Singapore Airlines
  • Scoot
  • Qantas
  • Thai Airways
  • AirAsia
  • Cathay Pacific
• Even charging phones using these devices may not be allowed.
• Aircraft seat power outlets are preferred when available.
• Hence, always follow the cabin crew instructions.

Do Power Bank Rules Differ by Airlines?

To bring power banks on a plane, aviation authorities set general rules. However, for safety concerns, airlines also apply their own policies on power bank use, storage, and capacity approvals. To know these, refer to the table below.

Airline	Power Bank Charging/Using to Charge Other Devices	Allowed in Checked Baggage?	Where to Keep in the Cabin?	Maximum Limit (Without Approval)
American Airlines	Not restricted	Not allowed	Carry-on bag only	Up to 100 Wh
United Airlines	Not permitted	Not allowed	Carry-on bag only	Up to 100 Wh
Cathay Pacific	Not allowed to use or charge devices onboard	Not allowed	Under-seat storage only	Up to 160 Wh
Singapore Airlines	Not allowed	Not allowed	Carry-on bag only	Up to 100 Wh
Scoot	Not allowed	Not allowed	Carry-on bag only	Up to 100 Wh
Air Asia	Not allowed	Not allowed	Under-seat or seat pocket only	Up to 100 Wh
Malaysia Airlines (incl. Firefly & MASwings)	Not allowed	Not allowed	Under-seat or seat pocket only	Up to 100 Wh
China Airlines	Not allowed	Not allowed	Overhead storage discouraged	Up to 100 Wh
Hong Kong Airlines	Not allowed	Not allowed	Under-seat storage only	Up to 160 Wh

How Many Power Banks Can You Bring on a Plane?

Typically, no more than 2 approved high-capacity power banks are allowed on a plane. However, it depends on international safety rules and airline-specific limits.

• Aviation safety authorities allow multiple spare batteries onboard.
• Each power bank must generally be under 100 Wh to be carried freely.

In brief, a power bank on a plane is allowed to carry. But it must be carried in cabin baggage and stay within approved capacity limits. Moreover, it should comply with the carrier-specific usage and storage rules. Additionally, passengers should also check the specific carrier’s policies to avoid any inconvenience.

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