PRESS RELEASE
FCM Travel shares safety tips as airlines introduce new restrictions on power banks and portable chargers
New York, NY (September 10, 2025) – With airlines worldwide tightening rules on the use of power banks and portable chargers in-flight, FCM Travel is equipping business travellers with safety tips to help them stay connected on the go.
The resource was developed in response to recent airline policies placing restrictions or bans on the use of power banks and portable charging devices during flights. With these safety tips, FCM Travel is urging travellers to stay informed about new requirements and adopt alternative strategies to remain connected in the air.
In May, Southwest Airlines became the first U.S. carrier to implement a new policy requiring passengers to keep power banks and portable charging devices visible during use. The rule aims to help flight crews quickly identify and respond to potential overheating from lithium-ion batteries, which can pose a serious fire risk.
Power banks and portable chargers have become carry-on essentials, especially during long-haul flights. We hope these safety tips serve as a valuable resource as airlines begin implementing new policies for these devices. Safety is a top priority, but there are practical tips and strategies business travellers can use to stay connected and charged while on the move.
- Charlene Leiss, President of Flight Centre Travel Group Americas.
Earlier this year, Lufthansa became the first major European airline to restrict in-flight use of power banks. Similar regulations have been adopted by other international carriers, including Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways, and China Airlines. In South Korea, all airlines now enforce nationwide rules banning portable charging in-flight and prohibiting power banks from being stored in overhead bins.
Starting in October, Emirates – the largest airline in the Middle East – will also implement a new policy banning the use of power banks during flights. Passengers will be required to store switched-off power banks in the seat pocket or under the seat in front of them.
As airlines continue to update their on-board battery policies, the tips below offer actionable advice for staying charged when flying.
Safety guidelines: Tips to stay connected and charged in-flight
Understand the policy - Check your airline’s specific policy before you travel. Rules vary by carrier and are subject to change. Review them on the airline’s official website.
Board with a full charge - Begin your journey with fully charged devices. If you use them at the airport, take advantage of charging points in lounges or restaurants before boarding.
Pack a charging lead - Carry a USB-compatible charging lead in your hand luggage. Many aircraft now offer USB charging ports, particularly on long-haul routes.
Prioritise a tablet - If you need a device for work or entertainment, consider using a tablet instead of a laptop. Tablets are easier to charge via on-board USB ports.
Use in-flight entertainment – Where available, opt for the aircraft’s entertainment system to help preserve your own device’s battery.
Avoid public USB ports – Public USB ports – particularly in airports – may be vulnerable to cyber threats. Before boarding, use a wall socket with your own charger or a portable battery pack wherever possible.
Choose reputable brands – Only travel with certified power banks from trusted manufacturers to minimise safety risks.
Keep chargers in the cabin – Always carry your portable charger in your hand luggage. Never pack power banks in checked baggage, as this is prohibited by most airlines.
For more information on FCM Travel, please visit here.
About FCM Travel
FCM is one of the world’s largest travel management companies and a trusted partner for thousands of national and multi-national organizations, including many household brands, Fortune, and FTSE 100 companies. With a 24/7 reach in 95 countries, FCM’s agile and flexible technology anticipates and solves client needs supported by expert teams who provide in-depth local knowledge and duty of care as part of the ultimate personalized business travel experience.
As the flagship corporate travel arm of Flight Centre Travel Group, FCM is able to deliver some of the most competitive rates, unique added-value benefits, and exclusive solutions for its clients to support their business travel requirements. A recognized leader in the travel tech space, the company has debuted several proprietary client solutions over the last 12 months including a new omnichannel platform featuring a "first of its kind" customized end-to-end user experience and FCM Booking, an innovative option to traditional OBTs.
Alongside its travel management services, the company provides specialist services through FCM Consulting and FCM Meetings & Events to service broader needs of clients. Discover the alternative at www.fcmtravel.com .
Media Contact
Scott Weiss – Flight Centre Travel Group
U.S. Director of PR and Communications
scott.weiss@us.flightcentre.com