Can I put power bank in flight?

Power Bank Safety on Flights

Ensuring safe air travel requires responsible management of electronic devices and their batteries. Power banks – portable charging devices – are essential for keeping devices powered while on the go. However, their presence on flights requires adherence to specific regulations to prevent potential fire hazards.

Carry-on Only

Power banks are permitted in carry-on luggage on most airlines. This designated space allows for quick access to devices and ensures that power banks can be monitored in case of any issues.

Capacity Restrictions

To minimize the risk of overheating and potential fire, airlines generally limit the capacity of power banks allowed on flights. The accepted maximum capacity varies among airlines, but it typically falls between 20,000mAh (milliamp-hours) and 100,000mAh. This corresponds to a power rating of 100 watt-hours (Wh).

Watt-Hour Calculations

Understanding the power rating of a power bank is crucial to ensure compliance with airline regulations. The formula for calculating the watt-hours of a power bank is:

Watt-Hours (Wh) = Voltage (V) x Capacity (mAh) / 1000

For example, a power bank with a voltage of 5V and a capacity of 20,000mAh would have a power rating of:

Wh = 5V x 20,000mAh / 1000 = 100Wh

Never in Checked Luggage

It is strictly prohibited to pack power banks in checked luggage. The limited air circulation and uncontrolled temperatures in cargo holds pose a significant safety risk, increasing the potential for overheating and fire.

Safety Tips

In addition to adhering to airline regulations, follow these safety tips for using power banks on flights:

• Keep power banks in a cool and dry place.
• Avoid exceeding the charging capacity of your devices.
• Prevent short circuits by storing power banks in protective cases.
• Inform flight attendants if a power bank becomes damaged or overheats.

By understanding and adhering to these regulations, travelers can ensure the safe and responsible use of power banks on flights, while maintaining the comfort and convenience of their electronic devices.