Japan to Implement Ban on Portable Batteries in Aircraft

Starting in April, Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism will implement a ban on the use of portable batteries, including those used for charging smartphones, on aircraft departing from Japan. This decision follows a series of incidents involving battery fires on airplanes, prompting the government to take preventive measures. The new regulations will limit passengers to carrying only two portable batteries on board.

Now Japan Joins InLocal media such as NHK and Asahi Shimbun reported on the 18th that the Japanese government will pus. .

The Ministry is currently communicating these changes to the aviation industry and plans to revise the aviation law notice in accordance with the guidelines set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) next month. The existing aviation law classifies auxiliary batteries as "preliminary batteries," which are already subject to restrictions regarding checked baggage and carry-on limits.

Local media such as NHK and Asahi Shimbun reported on the 18th that the Japanese government will pus. .

The decision to ban portable batteries aligns with similar actions taken by airlines in South Korea. Since January 26, 2023, five airlines under Hanjin Group, including Korean Air and Asiana Airlines, have prohibited the use and charging of auxiliary batteries on all domestic and international flights. These measures were also introduced in response to safety concerns regarding in-flight battery ignition incidents.

Local media such as NHK and Asahi Shimbun reported on the 18th that the Japanese government will pus. .Now Japan Joins In

The Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism has emphasized that the new regulations are a necessary step to enhance safety in air travel. They are working closely with the aviation sector to ensure compliance and understanding of the new rules.

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While the regulations aim to improve safety, some travelers have expressed frustration over the restrictions. For instance, Tran Eli, an Australian resident, had a cordless hair straightener confiscated at Incheon International Airport due to its built-in lithium-ion battery, which was deemed a fire risk. This incident highlights the potential inconvenience and economic loss for passengers who may have valuable devices confiscated under the new rules.

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There is a lack of detailed information regarding the specific types of batteries that will be banned and the exact criteria for compliance. Additionally, while the Japanese government has outlined its intentions, the full implications of these regulations on international travel and airline operations remain to be clarified.

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“According to local media including NHK on the 18th, Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism has decided to prohibit the use of portable batteries, such as charging smartphones, on aircraft departing from Japan.” — NHK

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“This is a countermeasure in response to accidents caused by battery fires on aircraft that have occurred both in Japan and overseas.” — Asahi Shimbun

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The upcoming implementation of these regulations marks a significant shift in air travel safety protocols, reflecting a growing concern over the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries in aviation.

Now Japan Joins In