The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has introduced new safety rules restricting the use of power banks on flights, limiting passengers to two portable battery packs each.
The new regulations, which take effect immediately, also prohibit passengers from recharging power banks during flights, the UN aviation agency said in a statement.
New Global Aviation Safety Measures
Based in Montreal, ICAO sets global aviation standards that are generally adopted by its 193 member states. The latest rules aim to reduce safety risks linked to lithium battery devices onboard aircraft.
Power banks are portable rechargeable batteries commonly used to charge mobile devices, but they can pose fire hazards if damaged or overheated.
Earlier Restrictions by Airlines and Countries
Several airlines and countries had already introduced similar measures before ICAO’s announcement. For example, the Lufthansa Group and authorities in South Korea previously tightened restrictions following battery-related incidents.
One such incident occurred in 2025 when a fire broke out on a plane operated by Air Busan, raising concerns about the safety of lithium battery devices during flights.
Global Adoption Expected
While ICAO sets international aviation guidelines, implementation typically depends on member countries and aviation regulators. The Federal Aviation Administration in the United States has not yet commented on the new rules.
The updated restrictions are expected to be adopted widely as airlines and regulators continue to strengthen in-flight safety measures related to battery-powered devices.
