Major Australian Airlines Introduce Strict New Rules On Power Banks

Two of Australias largest airlines are introducing new safety restrictions on the use of portable power banks during flights. From 1 December passengers flying with Virgin Australia will no longer be able to use or charge power banks in the air. Qantas and Jetstar will introduce the same rule from 15 December.

The changes follow several recent incidents involving lithium ion batteries. In July a fire broke out on a Virgin Australia service from Sydney to Hobart, with investigators pointing to a power bank stored in an overhead locker as the likely cause. Qantas also experienced an incident in its Melbourne business lounge when a passenger’s power bank overheated in a pocket and caused a small fire, leading to the evacuation of about 150 people.

Under the new rules travellers may still carry power banks but only in their cabin baggage. Each person is limited to two power banks and these must be kept within reach such as in a seat pocket under the seat ahead or on the person. Power banks remain banned from checked luggage.

Virgin Australia says the policy brings the airline in line with international guidance and reflects the growing number of battery powered devices carried by passengers. Qantas has echoed this position and says the changes are designed to reduce the risk of overheating events during flight.

Travellers are being reminded not to plug power banks into aircraft USB outlets and to keep them in a place where any sign of smoke or heat can be spotted quickly. With more flights than ever carrying multiple battery powered devices airlines are responding to a clear safety concern and urging passengers to keep updated on what can and cannot be brought on board.