In a move to enhance airline safety, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has enacted a new policy prohibiting passengers from packing power banks in their checked luggage. This new regulation, effective immediately, is part of ongoing efforts to mitigate the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, which are commonly found in power banks.
The TSA’s decision comes in response to growing concerns about the potential fire hazards posed by lithium-ion batteries, particularly when they are stored in confined spaces such as checked bags. These batteries, when damaged or subjected to certain conditions, can overheat and catch fire. While fires in the cargo hold are rare, they are particularly dangerous because they are more difficult for flight crews to manage once in the air.
Power banks, small portable chargers that are used to recharge electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops, are powered by lithium-ion batteries. While these devices are popular among travelers who rely on them to stay connected during long flights, they have been identified as a significant risk in the event of a malfunction or short-circuit in the battery.
Under the new TSA rule, power banks must be packed in carry-on bags, where they are more easily accessible in the event of an emergency. Passengers are encouraged to ensure their power banks are safely stored in their carry-ons, ideally in their original packaging or a protective case to prevent any accidental activation or damage during transit.
The rule applies to power banks with a capacity exceeding 100 watt-hours (Wh), which is a common threshold for most commercially available units. For reference, the typical power bank found in many consumer electronics falls within the 5,000 to 20,000 mAh (milliamp-hour) range, which roughly translates to 18 to 72 watt-hours. However, travelers with power banks that exceed 100 Wh will face additional restrictions, and those over 300 Wh are not allowed in either checked or carry-on baggage.
This change in policy aligns with recommendations from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and follows similar regulations already implemented by airlines worldwide. According to the TSA, while the rule applies to all airlines flying in and out of U.S. airports, passengers should always check with individual carriers for specific guidelines or exceptions regarding the transport of lithium-ion batteries.
The TSA has provided further guidance on its website to help travelers better understand the requirements and to avoid delays at security checkpoints. Passengers who inadvertently pack power banks in their checked luggage will be required to return to the check-in counter to repack them into their carry-on bags.
As the TSA continues to update its policies to address emerging safety concerns, it encourages passengers to remain vigilant and informed about regulations related to electronic devices and batteries. With the increasing reliance on electronic devices, this power bank ban serves as a timely reminder of the potential hazards that may arise from seemingly harmless travel accessories.
The new TSA regulation restricts the packing of power banks in checked luggage in an effort to improve air travel safety. While this may cause some inconvenience for travelers, it is an important step in addressing the fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, helping to ensure safer skies for all.