From 01 April 2025, Singapore Airlines (SIA) and Scoot will prohibit customers from using portable power banks to charge their personal devices via onboard USB ports for the entire duration of the flight.
Screengrab: Facebook/Singapore Airlines
Screengrab: Facebook/Scoot
This change follows safety regulations by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), which classifies power banks as lithium batteries, a known fire risk if damaged or misused.
Why Is This Ban in Place?
Image: Circular Connection
There have been multiple reports of power banks catching fire in recently, raising concerns over their use in enclosed spaces like aircraft cabins. Damaged or counterfeit power banks pose a significant fire hazard, and improper usage—such as overloading a device with continuous charging—can lead to overheating.
However, many passengers have pointed out issues with onboard USB ports, citing malfunctions or non-working charging points. While safety is crucial, airlines also have a responsibility to maintain their in-flight hardware to ensure that working alternatives are available.
What Travellers Can Do
To stay connected while flying, passengers can take the following precautions:
Fully charge devices before boarding to avoid reliance on in-flight charging.
Minimize battery consumption by avoiding energy-intensive apps, such as streaming services or mobile gaming.
Consider carrying a secondary device, such as a tablet, for in-flight entertainment or productivity needs.
Carrying Power Banks on Flights
Power banks are not allowed in checked baggage and must be carried in cabin luggage.
Up to 100Wh: Allowed without special approval.
100Wh to 160Wh: Requires airline approval.
How to Check a Power Bank’s Watt-Hour (Wh) Rating
Image: Circular Connection
Most power banks display their capacity in mAh (milliamp-hours) and voltage (V). To calculate Wh, use this formula:
Wh = (mAh ÷ 1000) × V
For example, a 20,000mAh power bank with a 5V output would be:
(20,000 ÷ 1000) × 5 = 100Wh
Passengers should check their power bank’s specifications before traveling to ensure compliance with airline regulations.
As airlines prioritize passenger safety, staying informed about these updates will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.
Thumbnail image: Pexels/Jeffry S.S.
