New Rules for Power Banks at 35,000 Feet

September 12, 2025

Need to keep your devices charged on those marathon flights? Be aware: power bank rules are shifting rapidly, especially on international carriers and even some U.S. airlines.

Corporate Traveler and FCM just released a handy airline safety guide that breaks down these new connectivity restrictions—essential reading if you’re traveling for business and need to stay plugged in.

Here’s a summary of new restrictions:

Some airlines are banning power bank storage in overhead bins.

In May, Southwest Airlines became the first U.S. airline to ban passengers from charging devices with a power bank inside a carry-on bag due to the risk of a charger’s lithium battery overheating or catching fire; this exceeded FAA guidelines, which banned portable chargers from checked luggage but allowing them in carry-on bags.
Lufthansa earlier this year became the first major European airline to restrict in-flight use of power banks.
Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways, and China Airlines have each adopted similar restrictions.
South Korea has implemented nationwide bans on portable charging in-flight and has also prohibited passengers from stowing power banks in overhead bins.
Starting in October, Emirates will also implement a new policy banning the use of power banks during flights. Emirates passengers will be required to store switched-off power banks in the seat pocket or under the seat in front of them.

Far from being alarmist thinking, these restrictions are borne from scary realities: In July, a Delta flight from Atlanta to Fort Lauderdale was forced to make an emergency landing when a passenger’s personal device caught fire in the aircraft cabin; it was extinguished by flight attendants. Earlier in the year, following a fire that destroyed a passenger jet in February, South Korean budget carrier Air Busan prohibited carry-on luggage containing portable power banks from being stored in overhead bins.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has reported 34 lithium-battery incidents on planes in the first six months of 2025, averaging nearly six events per month.

Staying Productive in Flight

While countless business travelers depend on flight time for crucial work, everyone requires entertainment to endure those long-haul journeys.

Australia-based Flight Centre Travel Group provided some tips for travelers needing a power boost in the sky while avoiding personal power banks:

Board with a Full Charge – Start your flight with fully charged devices. If you’re using them at the airport, take advantage of charging ports in lounges or restaurants before boarding.
Pack a Charging Cord – Bring a USB-compatible charging cord in your carry-on. Many planes offer USB charging ports, especially on long-haul routes.
Prioritize a Tablet – If you need a device for work or entertainment, consider using a tablet instead of a laptop. Tablets are easier to charge via USB ports on-board.
Use In-Flight Entertainment – When available, use the plane’s entertainment system to conserve your own device’s battery.
Avoid Public USB Ports – Public USB ports, especially those in airports, may be compromised by cyber threats. Prior to boarding, use a wall outlet with your own charger or a portable battery pack whenever possible.
Choose Reputable Brands – Only travel with certified power banks from reputable manufacturers to reduce safety risks and always carry them in your on-board bag.