These Asian Airlines Have Banned Power Banks on Flights

In recent years, lithium-ion batteries in power banks have been linked to several inflight fire incidents, raising safety concerns among airlines worldwide.

One such alarming incident occurred on January 28, 2024, when an Air Busan flight caught fire just before takeoff at Busan-Gimhae International Airport (PUS). Fortunately, all 176 passengers were safely evacuated, with only minor injuries reported.

However, this event underscored the growing risks associated with power banks, prompting airlines to reassess their inflight policies.

To enhance flight safety, EVA Air has announced a revision to its inflight policy regarding power banks and spare lithium batteries.

Effective March 1, 2025, the use and charging of power banks will be strictly prohibited throughout the flight. This policy aligns with measures already implemented by other Asian carriers, including those in South Korea and Taiwan.

Key Policy Updates:

• Passengers will not be allowed to use or charge power banks or spare lithium batteries at any point during the flight.
• All power banks and spare lithium batteries must be carried in carry-on baggage and cannot be packed in checked luggage to prevent overheating or combustion risks.
• Travelers are advised to fully charge their electronic devices before boarding.
• Most EVA Air aircraft are equipped with AC power outlets and USB (Type A) ports for charging personal devices. Passengers can refer to the “Inflight Entertainment Service” section for details on available charging options.

Taiwan’s flagship carrier, China Airlines, has also issued guidelines advising passengers against using portable chargers onboard, following the precedent set by South Korean airlines in early 2025. China Airlines mandates that power banks be carried in hand luggage rather than checked baggage for safety reasons.

Mandarin Airlines, a regional subsidiary of China Airlines, is enforcing identical regulations. Meanwhile, Starlux Airlines, another major Taiwanese carrier, has maintained a strict ban on using portable chargers onboard since its launch in 2018.

As airlines continue prioritizing passenger safety, these new measures reflect an industry-wide effort to mitigate potential hazards linked to lithium-ion battery-powered devices. Travelers are encouraged to stay informed about airline-specific regulations to ensure a smooth and safe flying experience.