Despite being a travel staple for many people, portable chargers are not actually allowed on checked luggage. This is due to the risk of grabbing a fire and can prove fatal if it occurs on an airplane hold.
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) states, “It is possible that under-manufacturing, false or misused lithium batteries and what is not protected from short circuits will be known as “thermal runaway.”
This means that you will need to carry the lithium battery in your hand luggage. This makes the fire less threatened as it is discovered much faster than the hold luggage.
The CCA said it acknowledged that a similar incident would still be dangerous if it happened in baggage. “Similarly, if such an event occurs in a passenger's cabin, passengers and crew members could suffer serious injuries. Therefore, controlled portable electronics (C-PEDs) are subject to safety design and operational standards.”
One airline took the ban a step further. Korean airlines have even banned power banks from overhead lockers.
Air Busan says passengers need to keep their devices in their own individuals at all times.
The rules were introduced in January 2025 after a fire broke out on one of the airline's planes.
Portable chargers aren't just amazing items that are not allowed in check-in luggage.
Christmas crackers are also prohibited by most airlines due to their flammable nature.
