Xing TianStarting April 1, 2025, Singapore Airlines (SIA) will prohibit passengers from using power banks to charge their devices during flights. This means travellers will not be able to connect power banks to onboard USB ports or use them to charge personal electronics for the entire flight. However, power banks must still be carried in cabin baggage and are not allowed in checked luggage.
Image credit: Nomadsoul1 via Canva Pro
Also read: A Guide to Bringing Power Banks on Airplanes
SIA announced this move in compliance with the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations, which classify power banks as lithium batteries. Passengers can bring power banks up to 100Wh without approval, while those between 100Wh and 160Wh require airline approval.
Reasons behind the ban
The decision to ban power bank usage stems from safety concerns over lithium battery fires. Recently, a fire caused by a power bank broke out at Raffles MRT station in Singapore, raising alarms about the risks these devices pose.
Image credit: Xiaohongshu
Additionally, incidents involving power banks catching fire onboard flights have prompted airlines worldwide to introduce stricter safety regulations.
SIA is not the only airline implementing such measures. AirAsia and Thai Airways have also banned the in-flight use of power banks following similar safety concerns. By enforcing this ban, SIA aims to prevent potential fire hazards and ensure the safety of passengers and crew.
Concerns and controversies
While the ban is intended to enhance safety, it has sparked debate among travellers. Some passengers, especially those on long-haul flights, worry about how they will keep their devices charged. A commenter on SIA’s announcement, believed to be a parent, questioned how children would be entertained on extended trips without access to power banks.
Image credit: rebius via Canva Pro
Others have suggested that SIA upgrade its in-flight charging options by introducing USB-C ports to ensure passengers can charge their devices efficiently using the aircraft’s power supply. As USB-C becomes the standard for many modern devices, this could provide a viable alternative to power banks.
Also read: Free Things You Can Ask for on a Singapore Airlines Flight
Singapore Airlines’ new power bank policy reflects growing concerns over lithium battery safety. While the move aligns with international aviation safety guidelines, it has also raised concerns among travellers about staying connected during flights. Whether SIA will introduce improved charging solutions remains to be seen, but for now, passengers will need to plan ahead to keep their devices powered during their journeys.
