Portable Chargers: Fly With Them Or Not?

Portable chargers are a convenient way to keep your devices charged while on the move, but can you bring them on a plane? The short answer is yes, but there are some important restrictions and guidelines to follow. Firstly, portable chargers are not allowed in checked baggage due to the risk of fire and explosion. They must be packed in carry-on luggage only. Additionally, there are restrictions on the wattage and power capacity of the chargers, with most airlines allowing chargers up to 100-watt hours (Wh) and a limit of two per passenger. It is also important to securely pack the chargers to prevent short circuits and ensure they are easily accessible for inspection by security agents.

Portable chargers with lithium-ion batteries must be in carry-on luggage

Portable chargers are allowed in airports and on planes, but there are some important restrictions and guidelines to follow for safety reasons. The restrictions are due to the fire risk posed by lithium-ion batteries, which are used in most portable chargers.

Firstly, it is important to note that portable chargers are not allowed in checked luggage or bags. They must be packed in carry-on luggage. This is because, in the event of a fire, crew personnel can respond more quickly and efficiently to a fire in the cabin than in the cargo hold.

When packing a portable charger in carry-on luggage, it is important to protect the battery from damage and prevent short circuits. This can be done by keeping the charger in its original retail packaging, covering battery ports with tape, or placing the battery in a plastic bag or case. It is also important to disconnect the battery from any devices before security screening.

There are also restrictions on the wattage of portable chargers allowed on planes. Most airlines limit portable chargers to batteries with a maximum capacity of 100-watt hours (Wh). Chargers with a capacity between 100-160 Wh may require pre-approval from the airline, and there may be a limit on the number of chargers allowed per passenger. Chargers with a capacity above 160 Wh are generally not permitted on commercial flights.

It is also important to note that portable chargers may not be allowed to be used during the flight, and they should be switched off during transit. However, they should be sufficiently charged to be powered on if requested by the flight crew or security personnel.

Lithium-ion batteries must not exceed 100Wh

Lithium-ion batteries are a common component of portable chargers. While they make high-capacity, lightweight, and small portable chargers possible, they are also subject to strict regulations regarding air travel. This is because damaged or overheating lithium-ion batteries can cause fires, and there have been instances where lithium-ion battery fires have forced flights to be diverted and grounded. Lithium-ion battery fires are challenging to extinguish, as they generate their own oxygen and can reignite even after being seemingly extinguished. As a result, airlines typically restrict passengers to batteries with a maximum capacity of 100-watt hours (Wh).

The 100Wh limit is a safety measure to prevent severe devastation and ensure all travellers land securely and on time. It covers standard electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and headphones. Most consumer-level portable chargers fall well below this threshold, typically ranging from 5000mAh to 20,000mAh, which equates to approximately 18Wh to 74Wh. This means that the vast majority of portable chargers are well within the allowable range for air travel.

When packing a portable charger in your carry-on luggage, it is important to secure the battery to prevent short circuits. This can be done by covering the battery ports with tape or packing them in plastic bags, cases, or dedicated charger pockets. Additionally, it is recommended to keep the charger disconnected from any devices and protect it from damage during transit.

It is worth noting that some airlines and countries have prohibited the carriage of all lithium-ion batteries in checked luggage. Therefore, it is always a good idea to check with your specific airline and country regulations before your travel.

Power banks are prohibited from checked luggage

Power banks, or portable chargers, are a useful accessory for travellers, providing a way to keep phones, tablets, and laptops charged on long journeys. However, it is important to note that these devices are prohibited from checked luggage. This restriction is in place because of the potential safety risks associated with power banks, which are essentially large batteries that can present a fire hazard or even explode if damaged or overheated. Lithium batteries, in particular, are subject to strict regulations due to their flammability and the risk of causing a fire in the cargo hold, where it is more challenging to control explosions and fires.

When packing a power bank for air travel, it is crucial to follow the guidelines provided by the airline and airport authorities. Power banks must be stored in carry-on luggage and should not be packed in checked bags. This regulation allows crew personnel to respond promptly to any safety issues that may arise with the power bank during the flight. It is also important to note that only power banks with a capacity below a certain watt-hour limit are typically allowed, and those above this limit may require special approval from the airline.

To ensure safe transportation, power banks should be packed securely in carry-on luggage. This includes protecting the power bank from damage and preventing battery ports from short-circuiting. Some recommended ways to prevent short-circuiting include covering battery ports with tape, packing batteries in their original retail packaging, or using plastic bags or cases. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the power bank is not damaged and has sufficient charge to be powered on and demonstrated to be functioning correctly if requested by security.

It is worth noting that while power banks are generally allowed in carry-on luggage, there may be restrictions on their use during the flight. It is always advisable to check with the specific airline and airport regulations before travelling to ensure compliance with any additional requirements or restrictions. By following these guidelines, travellers can ensure they stay within the safety regulations while still benefiting from the convenience of portable chargers during their journey.

Power banks must be switched off during takeoff, landing and turbulence

Power banks are allowed in airports and on planes, but there are specific rules and guidelines that must be followed for safety reasons. These guidelines are set by aviation authorities such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States.

One crucial instruction is that power banks must be switched off during takeoff, landing, and turbulence. This is a standard safety precaution for all electronic devices, and passengers should follow any crew instructions regarding the use of electronic devices during these critical phases of flight.

Safety First

Takeoff and landing are critical phases of flight that require the full attention of the crew and passengers. By switching off power banks and other electronic devices, potential distractions are eliminated, ensuring that everyone is focused on the task at hand. Additionally, in the event of an emergency, having all electronic devices turned off ensures that crew instructions are followed without interruption.

Prevent Accidental Activation

Power banks can be accidentally activated if they are not properly secured or if they come into contact with other objects in a passenger's carry-on luggage. Keeping them switched off during takeoff, landing, and turbulence prevents accidental activation, reducing the risk of fire or damage to the device.

Turbulence Hazards

Turbulence can cause unsecured objects to move around in the cabin, including power banks. By keeping power banks switched off, passengers and crew members can avoid potential hazards, such as objects falling from overhead bins or rolling on the cabin floor. This also prevents damage to the power bank itself and reduces the risk of accidental activation.

Lithium-ion Battery Risks

Power banks typically contain lithium-ion batteries, which can pose safety risks if not handled properly. Lithium-ion batteries are known to be flammable and have been associated with fires and explosions on aircraft. Keeping them switched off during takeoff, landing, and turbulence reduces the risk of overheating, short circuits, or other malfunctions that could lead to dangerous situations.

Compliance with Regulations

Aviation regulations, such as those set by the FAA and TSA, require that electronic devices, including power banks, be switched off during takeoff, landing, and turbulence. Compliance with these regulations is mandatory for all passengers and helps maintain a safe environment for everyone on board. Failure to comply may result in confiscation of the device or other penalties.

In summary, keeping power banks switched off during takeoff, landing, and turbulence is a safety precaution that helps prevent accidents, reduces potential distractions, and ensures compliance with aviation regulations. By following these instructions, passengers can contribute to a safer and more pleasant flight experience for everyone on board.

Power banks must be protected from damage and short circuits

Power banks are a modern traveller's necessity, but they can also be a point of concern for airline safety. Power banks, which typically use lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries, can store significant electrical energy. If they are poorly manufactured or damaged, they can overheat and lead to combustion or explosion, especially under pressure or exposed to high temperatures. Therefore, it is crucial to protect power banks from damage and short circuits when travelling.

• Keep power banks in their original retail packaging, if possible. This helps to protect the battery terminals and insulate the power bank from accidental activation.
• Alternatively, use a protective case, a fireproof battery bag, or a plastic bag to store the power bank. These options also help to prevent accidental activation and provide an extra layer of protection.
• Ensure that the power bank is turned off and not charging any device during the flight. Some power banks have built-in power switches that can be easily activated accidentally, so it is advisable to avoid such designs.
• Do not cover or tape over the power bank's vents as they are designed to release heat.
• Keep power banks separate from metal objects such as coins, keys, or jewellery, which could potentially short-circuit them.
• If you are using a battery pack, wrap back the connections before placing the power bank in its protective covering.
• Make sure the power bank is easily accessible during the flight so that, in the unlikely event of overheating, you can alert the flight crew immediately.

By following these instructions, travellers can help maintain flight safety and avoid issues with airport security. It is also important to note that regulations regarding power banks may vary depending on the airline, country of travel, and the type and capacity of the power bank. Therefore, it is always advisable to check the specific policies of the airline before travelling.

Frequently asked questions