New regulations for transporting portable external batteries (power banks)
As part of our ongoing commitment to onboard safety, we have updated our policies regarding the use and transport of portable external batteries (power banks).
What is changing and why?
The main objective is to prevent risks associated with lithium batteries, which under certain conditions may enter a self-accelerating process known as thermal runaway. In this phenomenon, the battery overheats and generates more heat than it can dissipate, which may result in smoke, fire, or explosion.
What is allowed?
| Situation | Details |
|---|---|
Carriage in cabin |
Portable external batteries are limited in quantity when carried on board. They must remain visible and be placed either under the seat or in the seat pocket in front of the passenger. They must not be stored in overhead compartments or checked baggage. Notify the cabin crew immediately if a battery shows signs of smoke, swelling, abnormal heat, or fire. |
Usage restrictions |
Reminder: Portable External Batteries (Power Banks) must remain switched off during taxi, take-off, and landing. They may only be used in flight to charge personal electronic devices. Recharging power banks by connecting them to the aircraft’s power outlets is not permitted. |
Handling precautions |
For your safety, batteries must be individually protected. Use the original packaging or cover the terminals with tape or plastic caps. Avoid contact with metallic objects (keys, coins, rings) and keep them away from flammable items such as perfumes. |
Checked baggage |
Reminder: Portable External Batteries (Power Banks) cannot travel in checked baggage. They are only allowed in the cabin, always visible and under passenger control. |
Capacity and quantity |
Reminder: The device must clearly display its capacity in watt-hours (Wh). |
Note – Smart luggage batteries: Lithium batteries must be removed from smart luggage and treated as portable external batteries (power banks).
Why these regulations?
Fire prevention: Lithium batteries can overheat rapidly if damaged or mishandled. The main risk factors include:
Impacts or deformation.
Short circuits caused by contact with metallic objects.
Overcharging or recharging through unauthorized power sources.
Manufacturing defects or battery aging.
Onboard safety: Batteries must always be carried in the cabin and kept visible, allowing the crew to act immediately in case of an incident. In the cargo hold, detection and intervention are far more limited.
You can find more details about these regulations on the IATA website.