Last Updated on 2025 年 8 月 25 日 by 総合編集組
2025 Airline Power Bank Regulations: A Comprehensive Guide for International Travelers
Introduction: Navigating Stricter Power Bank Rules
As air travel safety concerns escalate, 2025 brings tightened regulations for carrying portable power banks (lithium-ion batteries) on flights. Triggered by incidents like the January 2025 Air Busan fire and the March 2025 Hong Kong Airlines power bank explosion, airlines worldwide, including Singapore Airlines, EVA Air, and Korean Air, have introduced stringent policies.
This guide summarizes the rules for 24 major airlines, covering capacity limits, usage restrictions, and practical tips to ensure a hassle-free travel experience. Whether you’re flying to Korea, Singapore, or beyond, understanding these regulations is crucial to avoid security issues and keep your devices powered.
Global Standards: IATA and Airline-Specific Rules
Most airlines adhere to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) guidelines, which mandate that power banks be carried in carry-on luggage only due to fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries in cargo holds. Key regulations include:
- Capacity Limits: Power banks up to 100 watt-hours (Wh), roughly 27,000 milliamp-hours (mAh) at 3.7V, are generally allowed without approval. For example, a 20,000mAh power bank equates to approximately 74Wh, safe for most flights. Power banks between 100Wh and 160Wh require airline approval, with a limit of two per passenger. Devices exceeding 160Wh are universally prohibited.
- Conversion Formula: To calculate Wh, use Wh = (mAh × Voltage) ÷ 1000. Most power banks operate at 3.7V, so a 30,000mAh device is about 111Wh, requiring prior airline consent.
- Storage Requirements: Power banks must be in carry-on bags, and some airlines, like Korean carriers, mandate individual plastic bags with insulated terminals to prevent short circuits. Damaged or unlabeled devices risk confiscation.
Airline-Specific Restrictions: A Growing Trend
Several airlines have introduced stricter rules in 2025, particularly in Asia:
- Singapore Airlines and Scoot: From April 1, 2025, power banks cannot be used or charged in-flight, including via onboard USB ports. They must remain powered off and stored in carry-on luggage.
- Taiwanese Airlines (EVA Air, China Airlines, Starlux, Tigerair Taiwan): As of March 1, 2025, in-flight use is banned, and power banks must be in carry-on luggage with clear capacity labels. Overhead bin storage is discouraged for some carriers like Mandarin Airlines.
- Korean Airlines (Korean Air, Asiana, Air Busan, Jeju Air, T’way Air, Eastar Jet): Since February 7, 2025, a maximum of five power banks (up to 100Wh) is allowed per passenger, with in-flight use prohibited. Devices must be sealed in plastic bags with insulated terminals, and unclear labeling may lead to confiscation, especially in South Korea.
- Other Carriers: Emirates, Cathay Pacific, and AirAsia allow up to 20 power banks under 100Wh without approval, but in-flight use is restricted for some. Japan Airlines and ANA permit unlimited 100Wh devices, while VietJet and Peach Aviation are similarly lenient for smaller capacities.
Safety Incidents Driving Change
Recent incidents have heightened scrutiny. The January 28, 2025, Air Busan fire at Gimhae International Airport and the March 20, 2025, Hong Kong Airlines power bank fire prompted immediate regulatory updates. South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport now requires clear Wh labeling, with non-compliant devices confiscated. Globally, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) emphasizes that damaged or recalled batteries are banned, and airlines like Jeju Air allow exceptions for medical devices (e.g., hearing aids) with prior approval, up to 6-20 units.
Practical Tips for Travelers
To ensure compliance and a smooth journey, follow these recommendations:
- Check Capacity: Verify your power bank’s Wh rating (e.g., 10,000mAh ≈ 37Wh, safe for all airlines). Use the formula Wh = (mAh × 3.7V) ÷ 1000 for conversions.
- Carry-On Only: Never pack power banks in checked luggage, as this violates global regulations and risks confiscation or fines up to $17,062 per incident, per TSA guidelines.
- Label Clearly: Ensure your device displays mAh or Wh. For Korean flights, carry the original packaging or a specification sheet to avoid issues.
- Insulate and Protect: Use plastic bags or protective pouches, especially for Korean carriers, and tape over terminals to prevent short circuits.
- Pre-Charge Devices: Since in-flight use is banned on many airlines, charge your power bank fully before boarding and rely on seat USB ports where available.
- Contact Airlines for Large Devices: For 100-160Wh power banks, request approval at least 48 hours before departure. Contact details are available on airline websites.
- Choose Reputable Brands: Opt for trusted brands like Anker or Belkin to minimize risks of malfunction, as low-quality batteries are more prone to overheating.
- Monitor for Damage: Inspect power banks for swelling or dents, as damaged units are prohibited and may be confiscated.
Regional Considerations: South Korea and Beyond
Travelers to South Korea face particularly strict rules. Since March 1, 2025, power banks without clear Wh labeling are confiscated at airports like Incheon. Korean airlines require devices to be sealed in transparent plastic bags, with insulated ports.
Other regions, like Hong Kong and Singapore, enforce similar in-flight bans, while European carriers like Lufthansa may request documentation for 100-160Wh devices. Always check your airline’s website or contact their service center before travel, as policies can vary significantly.
Conclusion: Stay Informed for Stress-Free Travel
The 2025 power bank regulations reflect a global push for enhanced aviation safety, driven by lithium-ion battery fire risks. By adhering to IATA’s 100Wh limit, packing power banks in carry-on luggage, and following airline-specific rules, travelers can avoid disruptions.
For instance, a 20,000mAh power bank (≈74Wh) is safe for most flights, but always verify with your carrier, especially for Asian routes. With proper preparation—checking labels, insulating terminals, and pre-charging devices—you can keep your electronics powered and enjoy a seamless travel experience in 2025.
