Can You Take Power Banks On The Plane? | Essential Travel Rules

Understanding Airline Policies on Power Banks

Power banks have become indispensable travel companions, keeping our devices charged wherever we go. But the question arises: can you take power banks on the plane? The answer isn’t just a simple yes or no. Airlines and aviation authorities impose strict rules to ensure safety during flights, especially concerning lithium-ion batteries, which power most portable chargers.

Most airlines allow power banks in carry-on luggage but prohibit them in checked baggage. This is because lithium-ion batteries pose a fire risk if damaged or short-circuited. Carrying them onboard means crew members can respond quickly to any incidents.

Each airline may have slightly different rules, but generally, power banks with a capacity below 100 watt-hours (Wh) are permitted without prior approval. For capacities between 100 Wh and 160 Wh, passengers typically need airline approval before flying. Anything above 160 Wh is usually banned from both carry-on and checked baggage.

Why Are There Restrictions on Power Banks?

The core issue lies in the lithium-ion batteries inside power banks. These batteries store a significant amount of energy in a compact space. If damaged or improperly handled, they can overheat or catch fire—a phenomenon called thermal runaway.

Airlines and aviation regulators want to minimize risks by controlling battery size and quantity onboard. This is why you’ll find limits on capacity and restrictions on how many power banks you can carry.

Battery Capacity Limits Explained

Battery capacity is measured in watt-hours (Wh), which indicates how much energy the battery holds. Most power banks display their capacity in milliamp-hours (mAh) and voltage (V). To convert mAh to Wh:

Wh = (mAh × V) / 1000

For example, a typical 10,000 mAh power bank at 3.7 volts equals:

(10,000 × 3.7) / 1000 = 37 Wh

This falls well below the 100 Wh limit most airlines allow without special permission.

Here’s a quick reference table for common power bank capacities:

Power Bank Capacity (mAh)	Voltage (V)	Equivalent Watt-Hours (Wh)
5,000 mAh	3.7 V	18.5 Wh
10,000 mAh	3.7 V	37 Wh
20,000 mAh	3.7 V	74 Wh
30,000 mAh	3.7 V	111 Wh*
50,000 mAh	3.7 V	185 Wh*

*Note: Power banks above 100 Wh typically require airline approval or are prohibited.

Crew Safety and Power Bank Usage During Flights

Even though you can bring power banks onboard within limits, there are best practices to follow for safety:

• Avoid charging devices during takeoff and landing.
• Do not leave your power bank charging unattended.
• If your device or charger feels hot or swollen, stop using it immediately.
• Avoid carrying damaged or counterfeit power banks.
• Store power banks in your carry-on bag rather than checked luggage.

Flight attendants may ask you to turn off or disconnect your charger during certain phases of flight for safety reasons.

The Role of Aviation Authorities Worldwide

Several global organizations set guidelines that airlines follow:

• The International Air Transport Association (IATA): Provides detailed instructions about lithium battery transport under its Dangerous Goods Regulations.
• The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA): Sets strict rules for flights within and from the United States regarding battery size and quantity.
• The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA): Enforces similar standards across EU member states.
• The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC): Has its own set of regulations aligned with international norms.

These bodies emphasize carrying lithium batteries only in hand luggage with clear labeling of their watt-hour rating.

The FAA’s Specific Guidelines on Power Banks

The FAA states that passengers may bring lithium-ion batteries installed in devices or as spares if they meet these conditions:

• Batteries under 100 Wh: Allowed without airline approval.
• Batteries between 100-160 Wh: Allowed only with airline approval; usually limited to two spare batteries per passenger.
• Batteries over 160 Wh: Not allowed on passenger aircraft but may be shipped via cargo under special provisions.
• Batteries must be protected from short circuits by packaging or insulating terminals.
• Lithium metal batteries are subject to different restrictions due to higher fire risks.

Certain Airlines’ Specific Rules You Should Know About

While international regulations provide a framework, each airline implements its own policies that passengers must check before flying.

For instance:

• Delta Airlines: Permits power banks up to 100 Wh without approval; above that requires written permission.
• Lufthansa: Allows up to two spare batteries between 100-160 Wh with prior approval; prohibits higher capacities.
• Emirates: Restricts lithium batteries over 160 Wh; requires them only in carry-on bags with terminals taped or covered.
• Cathay Pacific: Limits spare lithium-ion batteries to two per passenger under certain watt-hour limits; no checked baggage allowance for spare batteries.
• Southeast Asian Airlines: Many enforce strict bans on large-capacity power banks above 100 Wh unless pre-approved by the carrier.

Always check your specific airline’s website before packing your power bank for travel.

Packing Tips for Taking Power Banks On The Plane Safely and Legally

Packing your power bank properly ensures smooth security checks and avoids confiscation at the airport.

Consider these tips:

• Select an appropriate-sized power bank: Stick below the 100 Wh threshold when possible to avoid hassles.
• Keeps it accessible: Place it in your carry-on bag where security officers can easily inspect it if needed.
• Tape exposed terminals: Use electrical tape or original packaging to cover terminals preventing short circuits during transit.
• Avoid overpacking: Carry no more than two spare lithium-ion batteries per flight as recommended by many regulators.
• No checked baggage storage: Never pack your power bank inside checked luggage due to fire risk concerns.
• Cable management: Detach cables from the charger when not in use to prevent accidental activation during screening.
• Keenly read airline instructions: Some carriers require declaring high-capacity devices at check-in or security checkpoints, so be prepared to declare if needed.

The Security Screening Process Involving Power Banks On Planes

Security personnel are trained to detect prohibited items including large lithium-ion batteries during X-ray screening at airports.

Power banks often show up clearly on scanners due to their shape and internal components.

If an officer suspects your device exceeds allowed limits or looks damaged:

• You may be asked additional questions about its capacity and usage history.
• The device might be removed for further inspection or testing using specialized equipment like handheld detectors checking for battery specs.
• If found non-compliant—such as exceeding watt-hour limits—it could be confiscated without refund or replacement options offered by airlines or airports.

Being upfront about your device’s specs helps avoid delays and misunderstandings at security checkpoints.

Mistakes That Can Get Your Power Bank Confiscated at Airport Security

Travelers sometimes lose their chargers because of common errors like:

• Lack of proper labeling showing watt-hour rating clearly visible on the device or packaging;
• Packing multiple high-capacity spare batteries beyond allowed limits;
• Taping terminals inadequately leading to potential short circuits;
• Casing damage making officers suspicious about safety;
• Packing chargers inside checked bags instead of carry-ons;
• Nondisclosure of high-capacity units when required by some airlines;

These mistakes often lead to confiscation without warning—so double-check before heading out!

Your Rights If Your Power Bank Is Confiscated at Airport Security

If security personnel confiscate your charger due to policy violations:

• You typically won’t receive compensation since carrying prohibited items violates regulations;
• You can appeal directly with the airport authority’s lost & found office but success rates vary;
• You should review airline policies carefully before flying next time;
• If uncertain about compliance beforehand, contact customer service for guidance rather than risking loss;

In general, prevention is better than cure when dealing with sensitive electronics onboard aircraft.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Take Power Banks On The Plane In Checked Baggage?

No, power banks are generally not allowed in checked baggage due to safety concerns. Lithium-ion batteries pose a fire risk if damaged, so airlines require passengers to carry power banks only in their carry-on luggage for quick access and response by the crew.

Can You Take Power Banks On The Plane Without Airline Approval?

Power banks with a capacity below 100 watt-hours (Wh) usually do not require airline approval and are allowed on planes. However, if your power bank is between 100 Wh and 160 Wh, you typically need to get approval from the airline before flying.

Can You Take Power Banks On The Plane If They Exceed 160 Wh?

Power banks exceeding 160 Wh are generally prohibited on planes, both in carry-on and checked baggage. These larger batteries pose higher risks, so airlines and aviation authorities ban them to ensure passenger safety during flights.

Can You Take Power Banks On The Plane And Use Them During Flight?

You can bring power banks on the plane, but using them during the flight depends on airline policies. Many airlines allow charging devices with power banks onboard, but it’s best to follow crew instructions and avoid using them during critical phases of the flight.

Can You Take Power Banks On The Plane From Different Airlines With Varying Rules?

Airline policies on power banks may vary slightly, so it’s important to check specific rules before flying. While most follow general safety guidelines, confirming capacity limits and approval requirements with your airline ensures compliance and hassle-free travel.