Airlines are imposing strict new rules on power banks due to fears over their fire risk. The UK's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has issued a stark warning ahead of the summer travel season, revealing that many passengers remain unaware of these crucial safety regulations.
The CAA is now requiring all power banks to be carried in cabin luggage only, banning them from checked bags and imposing a two-per-person limit. The authority believes this will significantly reduce the risk of lithium-ion battery fires, which can cause 'thermal runaway', a rapid and uncontrolled increase in temperature that can lead to explosion and fire.
Lithium-ion batteries found in power banks are particularly vulnerable to overheating, with documented cases of hundreds of safety incidents worldwide. In January 2026, a mid-air fire broke out on a South Korea-Hong Kong flight due to an errant power bank, while in the UK a family's home was severely damaged by a faulty charger in 2017.
Experts point to design flaws, manufacturing defects and poor usage as contributing factors to these failures. Counterfeit devices without proper safety mechanisms are also a significant concern, as are issues with suppliers in countries like China. Travellers are also warned that power banks can cause electrical shocks if damaged or faulty.
To mitigate the risks, UK travellers should only carry power banks in their hand luggage, avoid purchasing counterfeit products and be aware of airline-specific policies. Familiarising themselves with destination regulations is also crucial, as some countries have their own rules on electronic devices.