Power Bank Airline Rules 2026: Complete Updated Guide
All the power bank rule changes for 2026. Lufthansa bans, Emirates limits, South Korea restrictions, and more. Updated January 2026.
2026 brought a wave of new power bank restrictions from airlines around the world. Here is a complete breakdown of what changed and what you need to know before you fly.
Lufthansa Group — No In-Flight Use (Jan 2026)
From January 2026, Lufthansa, Swiss, and Austrian Airlines banned using or charging power banks during flights. You can still carry them in your hand luggage, but they must be switched off throughout the flight. Official Lufthansa Group announcement
Singapore Airlines — In-Flight Use Ban (Apr 2025)
Singapore Airlines prohibits using power banks on board, including via USB charging ports. Keep your power bank switched off and in your bag for the duration of the flight. Singapore Airlines official advisory
South Korea — Overhead Bin Ban (Mar 2025)
Following the Air Busan fire in January 2025, South Korea's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) banned storing power banks in overhead bins. They must be kept visible and within reach of cabin crew at all times. This applies to Korean Air, Asiana, Jeju Air, and all other Korean-registered carriers. Korea JoongAng Daily report
China CAAC — CCC Certification Required (Jun 2025)
China's National Certification and Accreditation Administration (CNCA) now requires a compulsory CCC certification mark on all power banks carried on domestic Chinese flights. If your device lacks this mark, it may be confiscated at security. CAAC official notice
Universal Rules That Have Not Changed
- Power banks must always be in carry-on baggage — never in checked luggage.
- Under 100 Wh: allowed on all airlines, no approval needed.
- 100–160 Wh: allowed with prior airline approval, maximum 2 units.
- Over 160 Wh: not permitted on any passenger aircraft.
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