Asian Airlines Now Ban In-Flight Power Bank Use (2025–2026)

Several major Asian airlines have introduced bans on using power banks during flights. You can still carry them on board, but they must remain switched off and stored in your bag throughout the journey.

Singapore Airlines (Apr 2025)

Singapore Airlines updated its policy in April 2025 to prohibit in-flight power bank use, including using onboard USB ports to charge a device via a power bank. Power banks must be switched off and kept in your carry-on bag during the flight. Official Singapore Airlines advisory

Cathay Pacific (Late 2025)

Cathay Pacific followed suit in late 2025, banning in-flight power bank use. Devices must be stored in the cabin baggage and must not be used or charged during the flight. Cathay Pacific restricted items page

Why Are Asian Airlines Leading These Bans?

The trend follows a string of lithium battery incidents on Asian routes, including the Air Busan fire in January 2025 and earlier incidents on other carriers. Aviation regulators in South Korea, Singapore, and China have all pushed for stricter controls.

What You Should Do

• Check your specific airline's policy before flying — even within Asia, rules differ by carrier.
• Assume in-flight use is banned on any Asian carrier until you confirm otherwise.
• Keep your power bank in your bag, not on your tray table or seat pocket.
• All size limits still apply: under 100 Wh no approval needed, 100–160 Wh requires prior airline approval.

Sources: Singapore Airlines advisory · Cathay Pacific · Korea JoongAng Daily