2025 Latest Airline Regulations - Power Bank Guidelines, In-Flight Charging Methods
Can power banks be checked in as luggage?
Power banks and related equipment containing lithium batteries must be kept out of checked luggage. Although they can be brought onto the plane, many airlines have introduced new regulations since March 1st, completely prohibiting the use of power banks and lithium batteries for charging on board. Furthermore, they cannot be placed in the overhead bins; they must be carried with you or placed in front of your seat to prevent damage or more serious accidents caused by pressure.
"Power Bank" Capacity Limit for Flights
The capacity of power banks brought onto the plane must not exceed 160 watt-hours (32000 mAh). For power banks not exceeding 100 watt-hours (27027 mAh), a maximum of 5 units can be carried. For power banks with a capacity between 100 and 160 watt-hours, a maximum of 2 units. If the limit is exceeded, they must be inspected by the airline and tagged before being allowed on the plane.
Regulations for Power Banks on Domestic Taiwanese Airlines
Currently, six Taiwanese airlines have announced new regulations. If you plan to bring power banks or related lithium battery equipment on a flight, you must be aware that they cannot be used during the flight and must be carried with you, not placed in the overhead compartments above the seats.
EVA Air: Effective March 1, 2025, to ensure flight safety, power banks and spare lithium batteries are strictly prohibited from use and charging throughout the flight.
China Airlines: Power banks and spare lithium batteries are strictly prohibited from use and charging throughout our flights. It is also recommended to avoid placing them in the overhead compartments above the seats.
UNI Air: Power banks and spare lithium batteries cannot be checked in as luggage. Please carry them with you and do not place them in the overhead compartments. For flight safety, their use and charging are strictly prohibited throughout the flight.
STARLUX Airlines: Power banks must be carried with you and properly secured. They cannot be checked in, and their use and charging are prohibited throughout the flight.
Tigerair Taiwan: Power banks without clear specifications or values are prohibited from being brought on board; additionally, the use of power banks is prohibited on all flights operated by Tigerair Taiwan (flight code IT).
Mandarin Airlines: For flight safety, power banks and spare lithium batteries cannot be checked in as luggage. They must be carried with you and properly packaged. The use and charging of power banks and spare lithium batteries are strictly prohibited throughout our flights, and it is recommended to avoid placing them in the overhead compartments above the seats.
Regulations for Power Banks on Korean Airlines (Busan, Eastar, etc.)
Air Busan: Power banks need to be carried with you and sealed in plastic bags or prevented from short-circuiting. Products exceeding 100Wh but less than 160Wh require airline approval.
Eastar Jet: All electronic devices containing lithium batteries and extra power banks are not allowed in the cabin's overhead bins. Each battery should be individually placed in a sealed zip-lock bag, or the power and USB ports should be taped for insulation.
Korean Air: Power banks need to be stored in sealed plastic bags or have their ports taped. Power banks exceeding 100Wh require approval and a sticker applied at the counter; if not approved, they cannot be carried on board. Batteries of 100Wh or less do not require approval or a label.
Asiana Airlines: Do not place power banks in the overhead bins. They must be kept with you or in the seat pocket in front of you. Charging power banks on board is prohibited, and they must be insulated. If a power bank overheats or expands, immediately inform the cabin crew.
What to do if you want to charge your devices while on a plane?
If power banks cannot be used on the plane, how can you charge your devices? The best approach is to fully charge them before leaving home. Additionally, many airports now provide charging outlets, and most aircraft seats also offer AC outlets and USB charging ports. It's a good idea to carry an extra charging cable just in case!