• April 30, 2025

Portable chargers not allowed in checked luggage during air travel

Portable chargers not allowed in checked luggage during air travel

LONDON April 30: UK air passengers are being advised to pay close attention to rules regarding portable chargers, commonly known as power banks, when packing for flights. The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has issued guidance due to safety concerns over lithium-ion batteries, especially those that are low-quality or damaged, as these can overheat and potentially catch fire, posing a risk to passenger safety.

Andrew McConnell, a spokesperson for the UK Civil Aviation Authority, told The Sun: “Lithium batteries power everything from vapes and mobile phones to cameras and power banks. If they become faulty or damaged, they can cause an intense fire that is difficult to extinguish – both in the cabin or hold of an aircraft.

“Correct handling reduces risk. Lithium batteries should be carried in your carry-on baggage. Power banks and spare batteries should also be in a cabin bag and should be completely turned off and not in standby mode.”

Anyone who tries to check in a suitcase with a power bank faces being removed from the flight along with the luggage.

Passengers are urged to check their airline’s specific policies before traveling, as rules can vary between carriers and may change with little notice. It is also important to ensure that all devices are in good condition and properly packed to avoid accidental activation or damage. By following these guidelines, travelers can help maintain safety and avoid having essential items confiscated at the airport.

Recent incidents, including a fire caused by a portable battery in January, have prompted stricter enforcement and new advisories. The CAA now requires that portable chargers and spare lithium-ion batteries be carried only in hand luggage and never in checked baggage. Each portable charger must be under 100 watt-hours (Wh); for larger batteries (101–160 Wh), airline approval is needed, and there are limits on the number you can carry. Some airlines have gone further, banning the use or charging of power banks during flights, or even restricting their carriage altogether.