Starting October 1st, 13 major airlines worldwide will implement a ban on carrying power banks in passenger cabins. This new regulation follows rigorous safety reviews aimed at minimizing fire hazards and ensuring the safety of both passengers and crew members.
Emirates, the Middle East’s largest airline, has issued an official statement emphasizing that the surge in lithium battery incidents on global flights is the primary reason for this measure. A spokesperson warned, “These incidents pose severe risks, including fire outbreaks and toxic gas emissions. Banning power banks in the cabin is essential to safeguard everyone on board.”
Several airlines on the list, including Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways, AirAsia, and Cathay Pacific, operate flights to and from Vietnam. (Illustrative image)
Joining Emirates, the 12 other airlines enforcing the ban are Singapore Airlines, EVA Air, Thai Airways, AirAsia, Air Busan, China Airlines, Korean Air, Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong Airlines, Tigerair, Starlux, and Asiana. These carriers all operate routes to and from Vietnam, meaning the regulation will directly impact Vietnamese travelers, especially frequent international flyers or those transiting through these airlines.
The 13 airlines implementing the ban are: Emirates, Singapore Airlines, EVA Air, Thai Airways, AirAsia, Air Busan, China Airlines, Korean Air, Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong Airlines, Tigerair, Starlux, and Asiana.
According to the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), spare lithium-ion batteries with a capacity between 100 Wh and 160 Wh can still be carried in hand luggage for personal use, but must comply with strict safety guidelines. Glenn Bradley, CAA’s Head of Flight Operations, noted that lithium batteries are found in common devices like smartphones, cameras, vapes, and power banks. When malfunctioning, they can become uncontrollable fire hazards in the cabin environment.
The CAA advises passengers to carry lithium batteries in hand luggage rather than checked baggage and to ensure devices are completely powered off to prevent accidental activation. Power banks should also be stored in easily accessible locations to allow quick response from the crew in case of emergencies.
Aviation experts highlight that this regulation serves as both an immediate preventive measure and a reminder of the importance of safety when using personal electronic devices during flights. In the confined space of an aircraft, any lithium battery-related fire incident could have catastrophic consequences. Therefore, passengers’ proactive awareness and adherence to these rules are crucial for their own safety and that of the entire flight.
