Is a 20000mAh power bank allowed in a flight with United Airlines?

Powering Up for Your Flight: United Airlines and Your 20000mAh Power Bank

In today’s connected world, a power bank is practically an essential travel companion. But when flying with United Airlines, can you bring your trusty 20000mAh power bank along for the ride? The answer, like many travel-related questions, is a conditional “yes,” hinging on specific guidelines and restrictions.

United Airlines, like most airlines, prioritizes passenger safety and security. As such, they have rules in place governing the transportation of lithium-ion batteries, the power source behind most power banks. These rules are designed to mitigate the risk of fire hazards associated with these batteries.

So, can your 20000mAh power bank make it through security and onto your United flight? The key factors are voltage and energy capacity, measured in watt-hours (Wh).

The Voltage Constraint:

United Airlines explicitly states that lithium-ion batteries must not exceed 12 volts. This requirement is generally not a concern for power banks, as most operate within a much lower voltage range. However, it’s always a good idea to check the specifications printed on your power bank to ensure it complies.

The Watt-Hour Threshold: The Crucial Calculation

The most critical aspect is the power bank’s energy capacity, measured in watt-hours (Wh). United Airlines allows power banks with a Wh rating of 100 Wh or less. Here’s where things get a little more complex. You need to determine the Wh rating of your 20000mAh power bank.

While the milliampere-hour (mAh) rating is prominently displayed, it’s the watt-hour (Wh) that matters to United Airlines. Luckily, there’s a simple formula to convert mAh to Wh:

Wh = (mAh / 1000) x Voltage

You’ll need to know the voltage of your power bank. This information is typically printed directly on the device. Most power banks operate at 3.7V or 5V. Let’s consider both scenarios:

• Scenario 1: Power bank voltage is 3.7V

  • Wh = (20000 mAh / 1000) x 3.7V
  • Wh = 20 x 3.7
  • Wh = 74 Wh

  In this case, a 20000mAh power bank with a 3.7V voltage is permitted on a United Airlines flight, as 74 Wh is less than the 100 Wh limit.

• Scenario 2: Power bank voltage is 5V

  • Wh = (20000 mAh / 1000) x 5V
  • Wh = 20 x 5
  • Wh = 100 Wh

  In this scenario, a 20000mAh power bank with a 5V voltage is permitted on a United Airlines flight, as 100 Wh is equal to the 100 Wh limit.

Important Considerations:

• Check Your Power Bank’s Label: The surest way to determine if your power bank complies is to locate the Wh rating printed directly on the device. Look for it on the battery casing or in the product specifications.
• Always Pack in Carry-On Luggage: Lithium-ion batteries are generally prohibited in checked baggage due to safety concerns. You must carry your power bank in your carry-on luggage.
• Loose Batteries: Never transport loose lithium-ion batteries in your carry-on or checked baggage.
• Power Banks Over 100 Wh: United Airlines allows passengers to carry up to two larger lithium-ion batteries (between 101-160 Wh) with prior approval. Contact United Airlines directly for instructions.

In conclusion, whether or not your 20000mAh power bank is allowed on your United Airlines flight depends entirely on its voltage and the resulting watt-hour calculation. Ensure it’s below the 100 Wh threshold, pack it in your carry-on, and you’ll be ready to power up your devices throughout your journey. Always check the United Airlines website for the most up-to-date regulations before you travel, as policies can change.