Thai Airways and AirAsia ban power banks on flights

[WORLD] In recent months, travelers have experienced a shift in airline policies regarding the use of power banks during flights. Both Thai Airways and AirAsia, two of the most prominent airlines in Asia, have taken the step of banning the use of power banks during flights. This decision, while seemingly small, has raised concerns about passengers’ ability to stay connected during long journeys, especially when the demand for electronic devices continues to rise.

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into why Thai Airways and AirAsia have instituted these bans, the potential risks associated with power banks on flights, and what this means for the future of in-flight connectivity. We’ll also look into how this policy compares with other airlines' approaches to power bank safety, and what travelers can do to prepare for their next flight.

The Rise of Power Bank Usage in the Air

With the increasing reliance on electronic devices, particularly smartphones, laptops, and tablets, power banks have become an essential accessory for many travelers. Whether it's ensuring you have enough battery for a movie marathon, maintaining communication with loved ones, or using your device for work during long-haul flights, power banks are more crucial than ever.

According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the number of passengers traveling globally is expected to continue to grow. With this increase, so does the need for passengers to maintain charge on their personal electronic devices. However, the growing popularity of power banks has led to mounting concerns about their safety in flight.

Why Did Thai Airways and AirAsia Ban Power Banks?

Both Thai Airways and AirAsia have implemented stricter policies regarding the use of power banks on flights, with some restrictions now prohibiting their use in specific circumstances. The primary reason for these bans is the fire hazard posed by lithium-ion batteries, which are commonly used in power banks.

While power banks are incredibly useful, they can also present safety risks when improperly handled or damaged. If a power bank is exposed to extreme temperatures or experiences physical damage during the flight, there’s a potential risk of the battery overheating, catching fire, or even exploding. This could endanger the safety of the aircraft and its passengers, which is why airlines have taken preventive measures to limit the usage of these devices.

In a statement shared by both airlines, Thai Airways emphasized that the decision was made in response to growing safety concerns related to lithium-ion batteries. Similarly, AirAsia explained that the policy changes were part of their ongoing efforts to ensure the highest levels of passenger safety. The airlines also warned that carrying power banks in checked luggage was already prohibited, but the ban extends further by restricting their usage during flight.

The ban on power banks is a part of broader airline industry efforts to reduce the risk of in-flight fires caused by faulty or mishandled batteries. This move also mirrors the global trend of other airlines and aviation authorities reinforcing safety protocols around power banks.

Safety Concerns and Airline Policies

In 2016, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) introduced more stringent rules around the carriage of lithium-ion batteries on flights. These rules, which are followed by most airlines worldwide, prohibit power banks from being placed in checked baggage due to the risk they pose in case of a fire.

However, the newer restriction by Thai Airways and AirAsia goes even further by banning power banks from being used during the flight, which adds an extra layer of precaution. These measures aim to reduce the likelihood of any battery malfunctions, overheating, or explosions, ensuring that passengers remain as safe as possible throughout the flight.

A spokesperson for Thai Airways explained: “The decision to restrict power banks was made after carefully reviewing the safety protocols set by global aviation regulators and the potential risks associated with battery-operated devices in the cabin.”

Likewise, AirAsia's safety guidelines note that power banks can only be carried in hand luggage, provided the battery capacity does not exceed the limits set by the airline. They also stated, “For safety reasons, power banks are strictly prohibited from being used during flights, as these devices can be a potential source of fire hazards if they malfunction.”

Power Bank Regulations by Other Airlines

The decision by Thai Airways and AirAsia to ban the use of power banks during flights has raised questions among travelers about how other airlines are managing similar concerns. While many airlines around the world have similar safety protocols for power banks, the rules are not always the same across the board.

For instance, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines allow passengers to bring power banks onboard, provided they are carried in hand luggage and the capacity does not exceed a certain watt-hour (Wh) limit. Most airlines follow the IATA's guidelines, which state that power banks with a capacity of 100 Wh or less can be carried in hand luggage. However, if the power bank exceeds 100 Wh but is below 300 Wh, it may still be allowed, but the passenger must get approval from the airline beforehand.

Airlines like American Airlines and Delta Air Lines have similar policies, restricting power banks from being used during flights but allowing them in hand luggage. These measures are taken to mitigate any risks associated with the battery-powered devices, ensuring that any potential issue can be quickly addressed.

What Does This Mean for Travelers?

For travelers planning to fly with Thai Airways or AirAsia, it’s important to be aware of the new rules and how they affect your travel experience. The airlines’ ban on the use of power banks during flights can be inconvenient, especially for passengers who rely on their devices to stay connected or entertained.

Here are some things travelers should consider:

Prepare Alternative Charging Options: Since power banks can no longer be used during flights, consider looking into other ways to keep your devices charged. Some airlines offer in-seat charging ports, or you may want to bring a charger that works with the in-flight power outlets, if available.

Keep Power Banks in Hand Luggage: As mentioned earlier, Thai Airways and AirAsia still allow power banks to be carried onboard, but only in hand luggage. Ensure that your power bank’s capacity is below the specified limits to avoid complications.

Understand Battery Limits: If you plan to carry a power bank, check the airline’s guidelines on watt-hour limits. Exceeding the capacity could result in your power bank being confiscated at the airport.

Stay Informed: Airline policies regarding power banks may change, so always check the latest travel updates and safety regulations before your flight to avoid surprises.

The Future of Power Bank Regulations in Air Travel

As concerns over battery-related incidents continue to rise, it is likely that more airlines will adopt stricter policies on power bank usage in the future. The rise in lithium-ion battery usage in various consumer electronics, including power banks, means that regulatory authorities are likely to continue scrutinizing these devices for safety risks.

It is possible that we will see more airlines following the lead of Thai Airways and AirAsia by not only restricting the use of power banks but also enforcing stricter measures on how these devices are stored and carried during the flight.

The decision by Thai Airways and AirAsia to ban the use of power banks during flights highlights the growing concern over safety in air travel. While these restrictions might be inconvenient for some passengers, they are ultimately aimed at preventing any fire-related incidents caused by malfunctioning batteries. Passengers are advised to stay informed about the specific policies of their airlines and prepare accordingly for their flights.

As technology continues to evolve and the demand for electronic devices increases, travelers can expect that airline policies on power banks will continue to evolve as well, ensuring that safety remains a top priority.