Asia’s Airlines Crack Down on Lithium Batteries as Fire Risks Rise

Airlines across Asia are imposing new restrictions on lithium batteries, reflecting heightened concerns over fire risks from power banks.

South Korea’s nationwide restrictions took effect this month, limiting passengers to five spare lithium batteries (each up to 100Wh) and banning those over 160Wh — roughly twice the capacity of a standard laptop battery. 

Lithium batteries power many popular electrical devices and are often found inside portable chargers, also known as power banks. Larger power banks can exceed the 160Wh limit, making them subject to airline restrictions.  

The new South Korean rules prohibit storing power banks in overhead compartments and ban direct charging of power banks inflight. This includes plugging them into seat power outlets or using the devices for battery-to-battery charging. Passengers must carry power banks and e-cigarettes on their person and store loose batteries in clear plastic bags.

Elsewhere, Thai Airways announced a full ban on inflight power bank usage starting March 15, citing “in-flight fires on international airlines, suspected to be linked to power bank usage.” 

Taiwan’s major carriers — including EVA Air, China Airlines, and Uni Air — have also banned using portable chargers onboard. They join Starlux, Tigerair Taiwan and Mandarin Airlines, which had already implemented similar rules. 

The restrictions follow a rise in reported incidents involving overheating batteries. In January, a fire started onboard an Air Busan plane as it prepared for departure. All passengers and crew safely evacuated the aircraft, which was badly damaged. The cause of the fire is suspected to be a portable power bank, though it has not been officially confirmed by South Korean officials.

Lithium Batteries in the Spotlight

Lithium batteries have long been a concern for aviation regulators. If damaged or overheated, they can catch fire or even explode. 

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recorded that battery-related air incidents involving smoke, fire, or extreme heat on U.S. flights surged to 84 last year, nearly doubling from 45 in 2019.

The FAA recommends that passengers keep electronic devices within reach in the cabin rather than placing them in checked luggage, where potential fires are harder to detect.

As South Korea’s new regulations take effect, Korean Air, the country’s flag carrier, said it has reinforced safety protocols and trained cabin crews to enforce the new restrictions. The procedures include identifying and marking power banks according to capacity and providing safety information to passengers during check-in.

“We recognize the importance of enhanced regulations on lithium batteries in air travel as essential measures for flight safety,” Korean Air said.

Meanwhile, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) added that standardized enforcement and clear passenger communication are key to making these new regulations effective. 

“IATA emphasizes the importance of globally harmonized regulations to ensure consistency for airlines and passengers. A standardized approach reduces complexity, enhances safety, and supports a seamless travel experience,” the organization said.