Power banks are extremely useful for keeping mobile phones and other devices charged while traveling, but there are strict safety rules regarding carrying them on airplanes.

Power banks use lithium-ion batteries that store more energy in less space, but can be a fire hazard if the battery is damaged, overheated or short-circuited.

This process of the battery overheating and catching fire is called ‘thermal runaway’.

Can power banks be carried on board?

A power bank is allowed to be carried on board but must be carried in a hand bag or cabin bag.

Most airlines allow a passenger to carry 2 power banks with a maximum capacity of 100 watt hours.

Can power banks be charged during flight?

Charging the power bank during flight is prohibited as per international aviation guidelines and rules of various airlines.

According to British Airways, in-seat power supplies should be used for personal electronic devices, not for charging power banks.

Also, the power bank should not be used to power any other device during taxi, take-off and landing.

Many airlines also do not allow passengers to charge mobile phones or other electronic devices through power banks.

Where should the power bank be kept?

It is best to keep the power bank in a place where it can be easily seen and removed when needed, for example in a seat pocket or in a bag under the front seat.

If a power bank shows signs of battery swelling, damage or abnormal heating, it should not be carried on board.

Accidental fire hazard

Lithium batteries in power banks are safe under normal conditions, but can cause fire if damaged, overheated or short circuited.