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Airlines Ban Power Banks Over Fire Risk Starting January

1/24/2026

44 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Starting January 26, five Hanjin Group airlines, including Korean Air and Asiana Airlines, will prohibit power banks on flights due to fire risks from lithium-ion batteries.
Passengers may carry power banks but must keep them within reach and cover terminals to prevent short circuits.
Airlines will communicate the changes through various channels and emphasize passenger cooperation for safety, amid rising in-flight incidents tied to power banks.

History

Historical Context

In 2006, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) implemented guidelines to mitigate fire hazards from lithium-ion batteries in air travel. Since 2010, over 200 incidents of battery-related fires have been reported, prompting airlines like Korean Air and Asiana Airlines to restrict power banks. These measures reflect the aviation industry's ongoing commitment to enhancing passenger safety amid evolving technological risks.

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Story summary

Starting January 26, five Hanjin Group airlines, including Korean Air and Asiana Airlines, will prohibit power banks on flights due to fire risks from lithium-ion batteries.
Passengers may carry power banks but must keep them within reach and cover terminals to prevent short circuits.
Airlines will communicate the changes through various channels and emphasize passenger cooperation for safety, amid rising in-flight incidents tied to power banks.

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