Following the dramatic fires aboard the Air Force Fleet flight in South Korea, airlines are tightening regulations regarding the carrying of lithium-ion batteries. In the incident that took place at Gimhae International Airport in January, flames swallowed an overhead locker and injured three passengers.
Investigators believe that although the final report has not been released yet, the fire was caused by deterioration in insulation inside the portable battery and ignition. This amazing event led to an increase in scrutiny of lithium-ion batteries on flights as several Asian airlines implement stricter safety measures. Meanwhile, British Airways, Ryanair and Jet2 already have solid policies on 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. International Civil Aviation Agency owns lithium-ion batteries from cargo in 2016. British Airways will prohibit all battery-powered devices from being stored in checked luggage and must carry luggage to passengers.
Airlines also recommend that the device must be packaged to prevent accidental activation, but damaged batteries are completely prohibited. Ryanair has followed similar guidelines and said power banks must keep them in carry-on baggage. With JET2, passengers can carry up to 20 spare lithium batteries, including power banks, but each battery must be protected individually to prevent short circuits.
In response to recent incidents, Asian airlines have implemented even more stringent measures. Korean airlines need to keep their power banks on passengers at all times, not checked luggage, overhead bins or seat pockets. Thai Airways has implemented similar regulations, but China and Singapore Airlines have banned the use of power banks and charging during flights.
Lithium-ion batteries are commonly used in cell phones, laptops, steam and portable chargers, and are generally safe, but the battery can overheat and ignite. Members of the cabin crew are trained to dispose of battery fires in flight by dipping burning devices in water or placing them in heat containment bags. If the fire is uncontrollable, an emergency landing may be required.
Mobile phones are permitted in the cabin, but if they are damaged it can pose a risk. Last week, after passenger phones fell into air vents, Air France flights had to return to Paris, raising concerns that the impact could damage the battery and create a fire hazard.
Steam and e-cigarettes, which also contain lithium-ion batteries, must be carried in baggage at all times, not in checked baggage. These devices need to be fully powered rather than sleep mode, and spare batteries must be wrapped separately to prevent accidental shorts.
Powerbanks are always packed with baggage, protected from damage, and will not be charged during flight unless expressly permitted. Keeping your lithium-ion devices out of reach and monitoring for signs of overheating helps prevent potential hazards.
Failure to follow these regulations can lead to confiscation, fines, or even disruptions in flight, so it is essential for travelers to be informed about the latest policies before boarding.
