Safety tips for using power banks and portable chargers on flights
Portable chargers and power banks have become essential for business travellers, to keep devices charged while travelling. But more airlines are placing restrictions or bans on the use of power banks and portable charging devices during flights, due to safety concerns.
While some battery types have been banned for some time, the increased use of portable chargers has seen airlines introduce new policies aimed more at these types of devices. Some updates in 2025 include:
- Southwest Airlines: From May 2025, requires passengers to keep power banks visible during use.
- Emirates: From October 2025, Emirates implemented a new policy banning the use of power banks during flights. Passengers are required to store switched-off power banks in the seat pocket, or under the seat in front of them.
- Lufthansa: Restricted in-flight use of power banks.
Which means travellers who rely heavily on recharging their mobile phones and laptops on flights, especially during business trips for work or entertainment, will have to look at new ways to keep batteries charged.
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.
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. FCM customers can ask Sam about specific airline policies ahead of their trips.
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.
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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.
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