AirAsia, a prominent low-cost carrier operating across multiple Southeast Asian countries, has taken decisive action to enhance passenger safety by announcing plans to strictly enforce regulations on the use of power banks during flights. This move, effective as of March 2025, aligns with growing global concerns over the potential hazards posed by lithium-ion batteries, which are commonly found in portable chargers. The airline’s decision comes in response to a series of incidents involving power banks on aircraft, including a notable case in February 2024, when a power bank exploded mid-flight on a Thai AirAsia plane traveling from Bangkok to Nakhon Si Thammarat. The incident, which caused flames and smoke to fill the cabin, underscored the risks these devices can pose in confined spaces like an airplane, prompting AirAsia to reevaluate and tighten its policies.
.gif)
The new regulations, which AirAsia has committed to enforcing rigorously, prohibit passengers from using or charging power banks during flights. This ban extends across all AirAsia-operated flights, reflecting the airline’s dedication to adhering to international aviation safety standards set by organizations such as the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA). While the use of power banks is forbidden inflight, passengers are still permitted to carry them in their hand luggage, provided they meet specific criteria. According to AirAsia’s updated policy, power banks must have a capacity not exceeding 100 watt-hours (Wh), equivalent to approximately 20,000 milliamp-hours (mAh), and each passenger is limited to carrying a maximum of two such devices. Additionally, these power banks must bear clear capacity labels, be in good condition without visible damage, and comply with IATA safety guidelines. Importantly, they are barred from checked baggage due to the fire risk associated with lithium batteries overheating, a restriction that has been in place industry-wide since 2016.
AirAsia’s enforcement strategy includes proactive measures to ensure compliance. Before boarding, passengers will be reminded of the policy through announcements and signage, emphasizing the importance of charging electronic devices before departure rather than relying on power banks inflight. Onboard, the airline’s highly trained cabin crew will monitor adherence to the rule. Passengers found using a power bank during a flight will first receive a warning, but persistent noncompliance may result in the device being confiscated and returned only upon landing. This approach mirrors actions taken by other regional carriers, such as Thai Airways, which implemented a complete ban on power bank use starting March 15, 2025, and reflects a broader trend among airlines to prioritize safety over convenience in light of recent fire-related incidents.
The decision to enforce these regulations stems from a growing body of evidence highlighting the dangers of lithium-ion batteries in aviation settings. Overheating, short-circuiting, or physical damage to these batteries can trigger thermal runaway—a chain reaction leading to intense heat and fire that is difficult to extinguish in midair. The February 2024 incident on the Thai AirAsia flight, where quick action by the crew extinguished the fire within minutes, was a fortunate outcome, but it highlighted the potential for more severe consequences. AirAsia Philippines, for instance, has aligned its policy with the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), which issued Advisory Circular No. 18-005 banning power bank use during flights due to these safety concerns. The airline has emphasized that while power banks have become essential for travelers, the paramount priority remains the well-being of passengers and crew. By implementing and strictly enforcing these regulations, AirAsia is reinforcing its commitment to maintaining a safe travel environment. The airline, which has carried over 800 million passengers since its inception in 2001, operates under the motto “Now Everyone Can Fly,” and this latest policy underscores its resolve to ensure that affordability and accessibility do not come at the expense of security. Passengers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the rules, charge their devices beforehand, and opt for power banks from reputable manufacturers to minimize risks. As AirAsia continues to expand its network across more than 130 destinations, this proactive stance on power bank regulations positions it as a leader in adapting to evolving safety challenges in the aviation industry.