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Singapore Airlines is the latest airline to put a ban on passengers using portable power banks on board the carrier’s aircraft.
From April 1, travelers on board Singapore Airlines flights will not be allowed to charge devices like smartphones using a power bank. They will also be stopped from physically charging a power bank through the on-board USB ports.
While passengers will still be able to bring a power bank onto the plane, the device will need to be stowed in their carry-on bags and not permitted to be inside checked-in bags.
“Customers may bring power banks with a capacity of up to 100Wh without special approval, while those between 100Wh and 160Wh require airline approval,” a statement from the airline read.
“We seek customers’ understanding that safety will always be our top priority.”
The decision made by Singapore Airlines follows a number of other carriers who have introduced strict rules on what can be taken and used on-board during a flight.
Earlier this month, Korean airline Air Busan banned passengers from having power banks in their hand luggage after a huge fire broke out on-board.
While no-one was killed in the accident, the plane was too badly damaged and was taken out of commission, with new rules meaning all power banks must be on the person.
From March 1, passengers of Eva Air, headquartered in Taoyuan City in Taiwan, will no longer be able to use power banks on-board.
Instead, passengers are being urged to use the on-board power outlets which have both AC and USB-A ports. China Airlines is also introducing the same rule from March 1.
Other airlines like Taiwanese carrier Starlux Airlines and Tigerair have already banned passengers from using them on-board, although they can still be taken in hand luggage.
Australian Airlines like Qantas also have strict rules.
“Baggage fitted with non-removable lithium batteries or powerbanks are forbidden,” the Qantas site reads.
“If in checked baggage the lithium battery or lithium power bank must be removed from the bag. The removed lithium battery or powerbank must be in carry-on baggage only.
“Non-lithium batteries/powerbanks can remain fitted in the bag and carried as carry-on or checked baggage.”
It is understood Singapore Airlines budget carrier, Scoot, has also adopted the same rules.
Rival airline Cathay Pacific Airways, however has said it “assessed all the risks” in allowing the continued use of power banks on flights, but would be making “no change” to its policy, as reported by the South China Morning Post.
The airline currently allows passengers to carry and use portable battery chargers and power banks, of up to 160Wh, inside the cabin. However passengers cannot recharge the devices with their in-seat outlets or USB ports at any time during the flight.
The power banks, however, can be used to recharge electronic devices while on board.
