Singapore Airlines Prohibits In-Flight Use of Power Banks Amid Safety Concerns
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Singapore Airlines has announced a new policy prohibiting passengers from using power banks in-flight, effective April 1, 2025. While travelers can still carry power banks in their hand luggage, using them to charge devices or recharging power banks onboard will be strictly forbidden. This decision aligns with growing aviation industry concerns over the fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries.
New Policy Details
Under the updated regulations:
- Passengers may carry power banks in their cabin baggage but cannot use them during the flight.
- Charging electronic devices with power banks is prohibited, regardless of watt-hour (Wh) rating.
- Onboard recharging of power banks is not allowed, as overheating poses a potential fire hazard.
The airline emphasized that lithium-ion batteries can overheat and ignite, particularly if they are damaged or malfunctioning, making the new restrictions necessary for passenger and crew safety.
Safety Concerns Behind the Ban
Lithium-ion battery incidents have become a growing concern in aviation safety. Airlines and regulatory agencies worldwide have reported an increasing number of fires caused by overheated power banks and electronic devices. Key safety risks include:
- Thermal runaway, where a failing battery overheats uncontrollably, potentially leading to fire or explosion.
- Short circuits or damage caused by poor-quality or overused power banks.
- Fires in overhead bins or seat compartments, creating mid-flight emergencies that are difficult to contain.
Singapore Airlines’ decision follows similar bans imposed by other carriers and regulatory bodies such as the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which have implemented stringent lithium-ion battery handling rules in recent years.
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Passenger Reactions and Industry Response
The new policy has sparked mixed reactions among travelers:
- Safety advocates support the move, stating that it reduces the risk of onboard fires.
- Frequent travelers express frustration, as power banks are commonly used for charging personal devices on long-haul flights.
- Industry experts suggest alternative solutions, such as installing additional in-seat USB charging ports to mitigate inconvenience for passengers.
Other airlines are expected to closely monitor the policy’s effectiveness and may adopt similar restrictions in the future.
Bottom Line
Singapore Airlines’ ban on in-flight use of power banks highlights the airline industry’s ongoing efforts to enhance passenger safety amid concerns over lithium-ion battery risks. While the policy may cause inconvenience for some travelers, it reflects a proactive approach to reducing fire hazards on aircraft. As aviation safety standards evolve, airlines worldwide may consider further tightening regulations on battery-powered devices to prevent mid-flight emergencies.
