If you’ve ever slipped a power bank into your carry-on for a long flight, you’re not alone. But you may not realize the risk. A recent incident on a Virgin Australia flight — where a power bank reportedly caught fire inside a passenger’s bag — has reignited serious concerns about lithium-ion battery safety in the skies.
Here’s what you need to know about bringing power banks and lithium batteries on board, what airlines are doing about it, and how you can avoid turning your trip into a safety hazard.
Can You Bring a Power Bank on a Plane?
Yes — but with strict conditions. Most airlines allow power banks only in carry-on luggage, not in checked bags. Here’s the breakdown:
- Carry-on only: You can bring power banks and spare lithium batteries in your hand luggage.
- No checked bags: These items are banned from checked luggage due to fire risks.
- Watt-hour limit: Power banks over 160Wh are banned unless approved for medical or mobility use.
- Safety packaging: Terminals must be protected — cover them or store them in the original box.
What About International Flights?
Not all airlines treat power banks the same. Some carriers, especially in Asia — including Thai Airways, Korean Air, EVA Air, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, and Scoot — go a step further and prohibit their use during the flight altogether.
Always double-check your airline’s policy before flying, especially on international routes.
Are Lithium Batteries Actually Dangerous?
Yes, under the wrong conditions — but incidents are rare. Lithium-ion batteries can go into thermal runaway, a chain reaction that leads to overheating, fire, or even explosion. That’s why airlines insist you keep them in your carry-on, where crew can respond quickly in case of an issue.
Why Power Banks Are Riskier Than You Think
Power banks, especially cheap or off-brand models, often lack built-in safety features such as trickle charging or thermal regulation. This makes them more prone to overheating — particularly during long periods of charging.
“Never leave your power bank charging overnight,” says Prof. Amanda Ellis, head of the University of Melbourne’s School of Chemical & Biomedical Engineering. “Once it’s full, unplug it.”
Long-haul flights can tempt passengers to keep devices plugged in for hours, which increases the risk if the power bank is poorly made or misused.
What to Do If a Fire Starts Mid-Flight
- Don’t use water — lithium battery fires require special extinguishers.
- Stay calm — flight crews are trained to handle electrical fires.
- Be proactive — handle and charge your devices responsibly to reduce risk.
The Bigger Picture: Battery Safety in 2025 and Beyond
As more people fly with multiple gadgets, airlines are under pressure to update and tighten battery rules. Virgin Australia is already re-evaluating its policy after recent incidents involving personal power banks.
We’re likely to see stricter enforcement, clearer watt-hour limits, and possibly even restrictions on how and when devices can be used in-flight.
Final Thoughts
Power banks aren’t the enemy — but how we use them matters. Stick to approved devices, charge smart, and always pack your batteries where you can keep an eye on them.
Have Your Say
Have you ever had a tech scare on a flight? Or seen someone use a questionable device mid-air? Share your thoughts (and horror stories) in the comments below.
