Thailand flagship carrier Thai Airways has announced a new safety rule banning the use of power banks during flights. Specifically, passengers must observe the new policy staring March 15, 2025, in observation of global aviation safety standards.
New Restrictions on Power Banks
To clarify, passengers can still bring power banks. However, they can only carry them in their carry-on luggage but not use or charge these onboard. Thai Airways has emphasized that this move aims to prevent fire hazards that lithium-ion batteries may cause.
“These measures are implemented to ensure the highest level of safety for passengers and crew,” read a notice from Thai Airways. “We kindly ask for your cooperation in adhering to these regulations and apologize for any inconvenience caused.”
Airlines have long restricted power banks in check-in baggage due to overheating risks. But the new in-flight ban affirms rising concerns over battery safety. Hence, passengers should check their power banks before travel to ensure compliance with the latest regulations.
Safety Concerns on Power Banks
Several recent incidents have highlighted the dangers of power banks on planes. One of the most alarming cases occurred on January 28, 2025, when a faulty power bank caused a fire on an Air Busan aircraft. As a result, the fire led to significant damage and emergency safety measures.
Passengers saw fire from an overhead compartment, implying that it might have been due to an electronic device or power bank.
Lithium-ion batteries, which is in most power banks, can overheat and catch fire if they have suffered damage or are defective. Consequently, airlines are stepping up efforts to minimize these risks. Airlines and aviation authorities worldwide have also taken similar precautions.
Aviation Compliance
Thai Airways is not the only airline enforcing stricter power bank policies. In particular, Singapore Airlines, Scoot, and EVA Air have also introduced similar bans. Additionally, AirAsia and China Airlines have also implemented restrictions to enhance passenger safety.
These measures align with the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) and International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) safety regulations. In particular, the aviation industry is prioritizing fire prevention and passenger security amid growing concerns over lithium battery incidents.
Guidelines on Power Banks
Travelers should be aware of airline-specific power bank policies before flying. While Thai Airways still allows passengers to carry power banks, they strictly prohibit in-flight use. Hence, violating this rule could lead to penalties or confiscation.
To guide passengers on the new rule, the airline released an infographic detailing what is allowed and what is not. If the battery capacity’s less than 20,000 mAh (less than 100 Wh), then they may bring it in their carry-on luggage. They can bring 20 pieces of these.
Likewise, a battery capacity between 20,000-32,000 mAh (between 100-160 Wh) is also allowed in carry-on luggage. Passengers can bring up to two of these.
Meanwhile, the airline prohibits bringing power banks with a battery capacity exceeding 32,000 mAh (over 160 Wh).
Passengers should also check power bank capacity and ensure their devices are in good condition. Faulty or overheating batteries pose a significant fire risk, making compliance with safety rules essential.
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