2026 is the most significant year for power bank rules since lithium battery restrictions were first introduced. A wave of new airline policies — many triggered directly by the Air Busan disaster in January 2025 — has changed what passengers can do with their power banks in the cabin. This guide covers every major change and what it means for you.
Global fundamentals (still the same in 2026)
Carry-on-only rules for spare lithium power banks and the usual passenger watt-hour bands have not been replaced by the 2026 airline policy wave. The full walkthrough — limits, mAh→Wh, and security tips — is in our complete guide to flying with a power bank. Official baselines: IATA lithium battery guidance, FAA Pack Safe, and EASA dangerous goods (passengers).
New in 2026: Lufthansa Group Bans In-Flight Use
Effective 15 January 2026 (per the Lufthansa Group notice), Lufthansa, Swiss International Air Lines, and Austrian Airlines banned using power banks during flights. You can still bring your power bank on board, but it must be switched off for the entire duration of the flight. This means:
- You cannot charge your phone, headphones, or other devices via your power bank during the flight.
- You cannot use a power bank as a pass-through charger connected to the aircraft's USB port.
- Medical devices (such as CPAP machines) that use external power banks may be exempt — contact the airline in advance.
The same notice confirms that power banks are carry-on only (not checked baggage). Limits on watt-hours, how many spare batteries you may carry, and when airline approval is required are set out on the official page — verify the wording there before you pack.
The Lufthansa Group's stated reason is fire risk reduction. The policy applies on all routes operated by these carriers. Official Lufthansa Group announcement
Singapore Airlines: In-Flight Use Ban (April 2025)
Singapore Airlines updated its policy in April 2025 to prohibit in-flight power bank use, including using the aircraft's USB charging ports via a power bank. The power bank must be switched off and kept in your carry-on bag throughout the flight.
This was one of the first major in-flight use bans outside Asia, and it triggered similar moves at Cathay Pacific and Thai Airways shortly after. Singapore Airlines official advisory
South Korea: Overhead Bin Ban (March 2025)
Following the catastrophic Air Busan fire at Muan Airport on 29 December 2024, South Korea's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) banned all Korean-registered carriers from storing power banks in overhead bins. They must be kept under the seat in front of you, visible and accessible to cabin crew at all times.
This applies to Korean Air, Asiana, Jeju Air, Jin Air, Air Seoul, and T'way Air. Korea JoongAng Daily report on MOLIT announcement
China: CCC Certification Required (June 2025)
China's CAAC and National Certification and Accreditation Administration (CNCA) introduced a requirement that power banks carried on domestic Chinese flights display a valid CCC (China Compulsory Certification) mark. If the device lacks this mark, or if the mark is worn or illegible, security may confiscate it at the checkpoint.
Most major international brands sold globally carry the CCC mark. Budget or uncertified devices are more likely to be flagged. CAAC official notice
Airlines That Still Allow In-Flight Use
Not all airlines have restricted usage. As of early 2026, the following carriers still follow standard IATA rules and permit in-flight power bank use:
- American, United, Delta, Southwest — No in-flight use restrictions. Standard 100 Wh carry-on limit applies.
- British Airways, Virgin Atlantic — In-flight use permitted. Power banks must be in carry-on.
- Air France, KLM, Iberia — Standard IATA rules, no additional use restrictions.
- Qantas, Emirates, Etihad — In-flight use permitted, though Emirates limits passengers to 1 power bank.
- Ryanair, easyJet, Wizz Air — Standard rules. No in-flight use bans as of January 2026.
What to Expect Going Forward
Industry analysts expect more airlines to follow Lufthansa Group and Singapore Airlines with in-flight use bans throughout 2026. ICAO is expected to publish updated lithium battery guidance mid-year that may set a global framework for in-flight use restrictions. Travellers should check their airline's current policy before every trip, as these rules are changing faster than at any previous point.