Global Air Travel Tightens Gadget Rules Across Australia, Asia, Middle East and Europe – Here’s What Passengers Should Understand Before Flying

In recent months, a series of alarming fire-related incidents on planes worldwide have led major airlines, including Qantas, Jetstar, and Virgin Australia, to implement stricter rules regarding the use and transportation of power banks. These devices, once a traveller’s essential companion, are now facing bans or limitations in response to safety concerns. After a significant incident in July, where a power bank caught fire aboard a Virgin Australia flight from Sydney to Hobart, the airlines were forced to act swiftly to prevent further tragedies.

This article takes a deep dive into why these changes were necessary, what travellers can expect moving forward, and how power bank regulations have changed in other parts of the world, highlighting the global effort to improve in-flight safety.

Why Are Power Banks Being Banned or Restricted on Flights?

The primary reason for these new regulations is the dangerous risk posed by lithium-ion batteries, which power many modern gadgets, including smartphones, tablets, and power banks. In recent years, several high-profile incidents have involved power banks overheating, catching fire, or even exploding mid-flight. These devices, if improperly stored or damaged, can cause fires that spread quickly in the confined space of an airplane, endangering both passengers and crew.

One of the most recent incidents, involving a Virgin Australia flight, saw a power bank igniting after being stored in an overhead locker, prompting an immediate review of safety procedures. Qantas, Jetstar, and other Australian carriers have followed suit with their own restrictions, citing the increasing number of domestic and international incidents involving similar devices.

New Power Bank Regulations for Australian Airlines

Starting in December 2025, Qantas and its subsidiaries (QantasLink and Jetstar) have announced new guidelines for passengers travelling with power banks. These rules include:

• Two power banks per passenger: Passengers will now be limited to carrying two power banks at most, regardless of their size.
• Size limitations: Power banks exceeding 160 watt-hours will be banned from the cabin entirely, meaning most high-capacity models will no longer be permitted.
• No charging on board: Power banks will not be allowed to charge during the flight. Instead, passengers must rely on in-seat USB ports for charging mobile phones or other devices.
• Power banks must remain within reach: Passengers must keep their power banks either in the seat pocket or their personal carry-on bags, where they can be monitored at all times. Virgin Australia has banned power banks from being stored in overhead compartments entirely.

These measures are a direct response to safety concerns highlighted by fires onboard planes in Australia and internationally. The new restrictions aim to mitigate the risk of lithium-ion battery fires, which are notoriously difficult to contain once ignited.

Global Efforts to Improve In-Flight Safety

While Australia is taking significant steps to protect passengers, other countries have also implemented similar bans or restrictions on electronic devices. Airlines in the United States, Canada, and Europe have started introducing similar measures in response to high-profile incidents, such as the 2018 fire aboard an international flight in which a power bank exploded, causing extensive damage to the aircraft.

In Japan, regulations have been put in place that mirror those of the Australian airlines, particularly following an incident where a power bank exploded on a flight from Tokyo to Hong Kong. Other airlines, such as Emirates and Singapore Airlines, have also reduced the allowed size of power banks that can be carried on board, further reflecting a global trend toward tightening regulations on the use of lithium-ion batteries in air travel.

Other Airlines Implementing Bans on Electronic Gadgets and Power Banks

Singapore Airlines (and subsidiary Scoot)

From 1 April 2025, Singapore Airlines (and its low‐cost arm Scoot) banned passengers from using or charging power banks during the flight. They still allow the device to be carried in the cabin (up to certain watt‑hour limits), but not to be used for in‑flight charging or recharging the power bank via aircraft outlets.

Emirates

From 1 October 2025, Emirates introduced a prohibition on using power banks during the flight. Passengers may still carry one power bank under a specific watt‐hour threshold, but they may not use it to charge devices on board or recharge it from the aircraft’s power supply.

Southwest Airlines (USA)

As of 28 May 2025, Southwest began enforcing a rule where passengers cannot charge devices with power banks hidden inside carry‑on bags or overhead bins — the power bank must be visible and accessible (e.g., on the seat pocket or tray table). While this isn’t a full ban of carrying them, it substantially restricts usage and how they are stored.

Several East Asian carriers: Thai Airways, AirAsia, China Airlines, EVA Air, and others

From various dates in early 2025 (e.g., from 15 March for Thai Airways and AirAsia) these airlines implemented bans or strict restrictions on using or charging power banks in flight. They often still allow carrying the device in cabin baggage (subject to capacity limits) but forbid using or re‑charging it onboard.

What Should Passengers Do When Travelling With Power Banks?

Travellers who rely on power banks to keep their devices charged while flying will need to follow specific guidelines to ensure their devices comply with the new regulations. Here are some important travel tips:

1. Check your power bank’s watt-hour rating: Before packing your power bank, verify its watt-hour (Wh) rating. If it exceeds 160 Wh, it will not be allowed on board.
2. Carry power banks in your hand luggage: Always keep your power bank with you in your hand luggage, as most airlines now prohibit them from being stored in checked luggage due to fire risks.
3. Avoid overcharging your device: Power banks should not be charged while in the aircraft cabin, as this can increase the risk of overheating. Rely on the in-seat charging ports instead.
4. Understand airline-specific rules: Different airlines may have their own rules for carrying power banks, so it’s crucial to check each airline’s website for specific requirements.
5. Purchase travel-friendly power banks: Some companies now make power banks specifically designed for air travel, adhering to safety regulations. These are a safer choice for frequent flyers.

The Growing Need for Awareness Among Travellers

The new rules highlight the increased awareness needed regarding the dangers of power banks and other electronic devices on airplanes. While most travellers are aware of the need to carry essential gadgets, the risks of improperly handled power banks cannot be overstated.

Power banks, though immensely useful, can quickly turn from a travel convenience into a major safety hazard. The new restrictions are a wake-up call for both airlines and passengers about the need to adapt to changing technology while ensuring safety in the skies.

Final Thoughts on Travel Safety and Power Bank Regulations

As more and more airlines adopt similar rules to those of Qantas, Jetstar, and Virgin Australia, it becomes clear that the days of unrestricted power bank usage on planes are over. While these changes may seem inconvenient for some, the safety of passengers must always come first.

The new restrictions are an important reminder of the risks involved in modern air travel and the need for continued vigilance and safety measures as technology continues to evolve. Passengers are encouraged to stay informed about the latest travel guidelines to ensure they are fully compliant and safe while flying.

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