The International Civil Aviation Organization just introduced tough new safety rules. These rules stop passengers from charging power banks during flights. From today, travelers can carry a maximum of only two portable power banks each. They must stay completely switched off and unplugged the whole time in the air.
ICAO, the UN body that sets global flying standards, made the announcement on Saturday. The rules kick in immediately for airlines in its 193 member countries. The main reason is the growing risk of lithium battery fires. Power banks can overheat or catch fire if they get damaged. They can also become dangerous if used while flying.
Recent Incidents That Forced the Change
This decision comes after several scary cases. In 2025, a fire broke out on an Air Busan flight because of a battery issue. This forced the plane to make an emergency landing. Some airlines and countries had already started tightening their own rules before ICAO stepped in. Lufthansa Group and South Korean authorities, for example, brought in similar limits. They did so after earlier battery incidents.
What This Means for Passengers
It is allowed to bring up to two power banks in your carry-on bag. However, you cannot charge them at all during the flight. Crew will remind people of the rule during boarding. Most airlines worldwide are expected to follow the new ICAO guidelines quickly.
The US Federal Aviation Administration has not commented yet. Experts say the change will spread fast because ICAO standards usually become the worldwide norm.
Additionally, for long trips, pack extra fully charged phones. You can also carry small approved batteries that meet the limit. The goal is to cut down the chance of any lithium battery fire and keep everyone safer.
