Following a dramatic fire aboard an Air Busan flight in South Korea, airlines are tightening their regulations on carrying lithium-ion batteries. The incident, which occurred in January at Gimhae International Airport, saw flames engulfing the overhead lockers and resulted in injuries to three passengers.

Investigators believe the fire was caused by insulation inside a portable battery deteriorating and igniting, though the final report is yet to be released. This alarming event has led to increased scrutiny of lithium-ion batteries on flights, with several Asian airlines implementing stricter safety measures. Meanwhile, British Airways, Ryanair, and Jet2 already have firm policies regarding where and how passengers can transport power banks. 

Most airlines do not allow power banks or spare lithium-ion batteries to be placed in checked luggage due to the risk of fire. The International Civil Aviation Organization banned lithium-ion batteries from cargo holds on passenger planes in 2016. British Airways prohibits all battery-powered devices from being stored in checked baggage and requires passengers to carry them in hand luggage.

The airline also advises that devices must be packed to prevent accidental activation, while damaged batteries are banned completely. Ryanair follows similar guidelines, stating that power banks must be kept in carry-on bags. Jet2 allows passengers to carry up to 20 spare lithium batteries, including power banks, but requires each battery to be individually protected to prevent short circuits.

In response to recent incidents, airlines in Asia have introduced even stricter measures. South Korean carriers now require passengers to keep power banks on their person at all times, rather than in checked baggage, overhead bins, or seat pockets. Thai Airways has implemented similar regulations, while China Airlines and Singapore Airlines have prohibited the use and charging of power banks during flights.

Lithium-ion batteries are commonly used in phones, laptops, vapes, and portable chargers, and while they are generally safe, damaged or faulty batteries can overheat and ignite. Cabin crew members are trained to handle in-flight battery fires by dousing burning devices in water or placing them in thermal containment bags. If a fire cannot be controlled, an emergency landing may be necessary. 

Mobile phones are allowed in the cabin, but they can still pose a risk if they are damaged. Last week, an Air France flight had to return to Paris after a passenger’s phone fell into an air vent, raising concerns that the impact could have damaged its battery and created a fire hazard.

Vapes and e-cigarettes, which also contain lithium-ion batteries, must always be carried in hand luggage rather than checked baggage. These devices must be completely powered off rather than left in sleep mode, and spare batteries should be individually wrapped to prevent accidental short circuits.

Power banks should always be packed in hand luggage, protected from damage, and never charged during the flight unless explicitly permitted. Keeping lithium-ion devices within reach and monitoring them for any signs of overheating can help prevent potential dangers.

Failure to follow these regulations could lead to confiscation, fines, or even flight disruptions, so it is essential for travellers to stay informed about the latest policies before boarding.