Power banks, once a must-have for long-haul flights, are now becoming a growing safety concern for the aviation industry. Several airlines have now started banning the use of power banks in-flight, citing risks linked to lithium batteries.

The latest carriers to clamp down are Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air, both of which have now prohibited passengers from using power banks during flights.

What the New Rules Mean for Travellers

As per the new rules, you can still bring power banks in your hand luggage, but they can’t be used during the flight. They must stay visible and unplugged, and checked luggage is completely off-limits.

The ban comes amid growing lithium battery safety concerns. Regulators have logged several overheating and fire incidents tied to power banks. The FAA recently confirmed 50 such cases mid‑air.

According to the FAA, batteries in overhead bins or carry‑ons can be hard to spot if they overheat. Any delay in noticing can slow down firefighting and increase risks on board.

Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air Join the Ban

Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air are the latest to prohibit passengers from using power banks onboard. The rules are strict:

• Power banks are allowed only in hand luggage, never in checked bags.
• They must be kept in sight but cannot be used during the flight.
• Charging power banks through seat ports is also off-limits.

Both carriers operate busy international networks, including Vietnam Airlines’ Heathrow connections to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, meaning the ban will affect many UK and European travellers.

Other Airlines That Have Banned or Restricted Power Banks

Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet are far from alone. A growing number of international carriers have taken similar steps:

1. Emirates

The Dubai-based Emirates has taken a tough stance, banning power banks entirely on its flights, citing safety concerns over lithium battery risks during long-haul travel.

2. Singapore Airlines

Known for its premium service, Singapore Airlines now restricts the in-flight use of power banks. Passengers can carry them, but must not charge devices mid-flight.

3. EVA Air

Taiwan-based EVA Air have also enforced limits on carrying and using power banks, reflecting its broader commitment to onboard safety and strict compliance with battery regulations.

4. Thai Airways

Thailand’s flag carrier, Thai Airways has introduced a full ban, emphasising passenger safety after growing international concern about overheating lithium batteries and fire risks in-flight.

5. AirAsia

As one of Asia’s busiest low-cost airlines, AirAsia applies strict rules on portable chargers, allowing them in carry-ons but banning use or charging during flights.

6. Tigerair

This Singapore-based regional low-cost carrier has rolled out restrictions, telling passengers to pack power banks only in hand luggage and avoid any use while onboard.

7. Starlux Airlines

Taiwan’s luxury-focused airline has also moved to ban the onboard use of power banks, highlighting safety as it expands long-haul operations to Europe and North America.

What Passengers Can Do

For passengers, the message is clear: you can still bring a power bank onboard, but you can’t use it during the flight. Pack it in your carry-on, not in checked luggage, and keep it visible at all times.

• Check your airline’s specific policy before flying, as rules vary by carrier and even route.
• Always keep power banks in your carry-on, never in checked bags.
• Use official or airline-approved ports if device charging is needed during long flights.
• Consider investing in higher-capacity devices that can last the entire journey without mid-air charging.

Final Thoughts

The power bank ban may frustrate frequent travellers who rely on portable chargers mid-journey, but the safety concerns are hard to ignore. Airlines are erring on the side of caution, and it looks likely more carriers will follow suit in the coming months.

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