The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has warned that power banks are increasingly causing serious safety issues on flights worldwide, urging passengers to strictly follow airline rules.
The regulator said portable chargers can overheat or catch fire, describing them as a “serious risk” if not handled properly. It stressed that rules such as banning power banks in checked luggage are safety-critical rather than arbitrary.
Jonathan Nicholson of the CAA said passengers must carry power banks in hand luggage, with a limit of two per person, and avoid using or charging them during flights as this increases the risk of overheating.
The warning follows an EasyJet flight from Egypt to London being diverted to Rome last week after a passenger packed a power bank in the aircraft’s hold. The flight was forced to land as a precaution, leaving passengers stranded overnight.
The CAA said incidents involving lithium-ion batteries are rising as portable devices become more common, citing data suggesting an average of two flights per week experienced overheating-related incidents in 2024.
It added that public awareness remains limited, with a survey showing many passengers are unclear about the rules despite knowing they exist.
The regulator plans to launch a summer awareness campaign with airlines, warning that improper handling of power banks can pose significant fire risks, though cabin crew are trained to respond to such emergencies. (Newswire)