power banks singapore airlines

Power Bank Ban on Singapore Airlines: What Aussie Travellers Need to Know

Are you planning a trip with Singapore Airlines? You might want to rethink your charging strategy. Starting April 1, 2025, Singapore Airlines (SIA) and its budget subsidiary Scoot will be enforcing a ban on the use of power banks during flights. This means no more topping up your phone or tablet mid-air with your trusty portable charger.

This move positions Singapore Airlines alongside other Asian carriers tightening regulations on power banks due to potential fire risks associated with lithium-based batteries. But what exactly does this mean for Aussie travellers, and why is this happening now? Let's dive in.

Singapore Airlines Restricts Power Bank Usage: The Details

The core of the issue is safety. Singapore Airlines has announced that passengers will be prohibited from using power banks to charge their devices or charging the power banks themselves via onboard USB ports. This applies to all Singapore Airlines and Scoot flights.

Here's a breakdown of the key points:

• No Using Power Banks: You can't use your power bank to charge your phone, tablet, or any other device during the flight.
• No Charging Power Banks: You also can't plug your power bank into the aircraft's USB ports to recharge it.
• Carry-on Only: Power banks are only permitted in carry-on baggage and are strictly prohibited in checked baggage. This is a standard safety measure across most airlines.
• Watt-hour Limits: There are restrictions on the capacity of power banks allowed. You can bring power banks up to 100Wh without special approval. Power banks between 100Wh and 160Wh require airline approval.

As stated in Singapore Airlines' advisory, "Customers may bring power banks with a capacity of up to 100Wh without special approval, while those between 100Wh and 160Wh require airline approval. We seek customers' understanding that safety will always be our top priority."

The Timeline: How Did We Get Here?

The announcement of the power bank ban came on March 12, 2025, with the policy officially taking effect on April 1, 2025. This relatively short notice has left some travellers scrambling to adjust their in-flight entertainment and charging plans.

• March 12, 2025: Singapore Airlines issues an advisory announcing the ban on power bank usage, effective April 1, 2025.
• April 1, 2025: The ban on using and charging power banks on Singapore Airlines and Scoot flights officially goes into effect.

Why the Ban? Understanding the Fire Risk

The primary reason behind the ban is the potential fire hazard posed by lithium-ion batteries, which are commonly found in power banks. These batteries can overheat and, in rare cases, ignite, especially if they are damaged, defective, or overcharged.

While incidents are infrequent, the consequences of a battery fire on an aircraft can be severe. The New York Times reported on March 11, 2025, that rules for portable batteries on planes are changing, highlighting the growing concern over these devices.

Several airlines across Asia have already implemented similar restrictions, reflecting a broader industry trend towards prioritizing safety when it comes to lithium-ion batteries. Singapore Airlines' decision aligns with this trend. "Singapore Airlines joins growing list of carriers banning popular travel device," as reported.

Cathay Pacific, another major regional airline, has taken a different approach. This difference highlights the varying risk assessments and operational considerations among airlines.

Impact on Aussie Travellers: What to Expect

For Australian travellers, this ban means a few key adjustments to your travel routine:

• Plan Your In-Flight Entertainment: Download movies, TV shows, and podcasts to your devices before your flight. Don't rely on being able to charge your device mid-air.
• Charge Devices Fully Before Boarding: Ensure your phone, tablet, and other devices are fully charged before you board the plane.
• Consider Alternative Charging Solutions: If you absolutely need to charge your devices during your trip, consider using wall chargers at the airport during layovers or at your destination.
• Check Watt-hour Rating: If you plan to bring a power bank, check its watt-hour (Wh) rating to ensure it meets Singapore Airlines' requirements. Power banks up to 100Wh are generally permitted without prior approval.
• Pack Power Banks in Carry-On Luggage: Always pack your power banks in your carry-on luggage, as they are not allowed in checked baggage.

The Bigger Picture: Lithium-Ion Battery Safety in Aviation

The Singapore Airlines power bank ban is part of a larger global conversation about the safety of lithium-ion batteries in aviation. These batteries are ubiquitous in modern electronics, from smartphones and laptops to e-cigarettes and even some types of "smart" luggage.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has published guidelines for the safe transport of lithium batteries by air. These guidelines address issues such as battery type, watt-hour rating, packaging, and handling.

The increased scrutiny of lithium-ion batteries stems from several incidents involving fires or overheating of these batteries on aircraft. While these incidents are rare, they have raised concerns about the potential for more serious accidents.

Looking Ahead: The Future of In-Flight Charging

The Singapore Airlines power bank ban raises questions about the future of in-flight charging. Will other airlines follow suit? Will aircraft manufacturers develop safer and more reliable onboard charging solutions?

Some airlines are already exploring alternative charging options, such as wireless charging pads and improved USB ports with enhanced safety features. As technology evolves, we may see new and innovative ways to keep our devices powered up during flights.

For now, however, Aussie travellers flying with Singapore Airlines need to be aware of the new restrictions on power bank usage. By planning ahead and adjusting your travel routine, you can ensure a smooth and safe journey.

Watt-Hour (Wh) Rating: How to Check Your Power Bank

Not sure what the watt-hour (Wh) rating of your power bank is? Here's how to find out:

1. Check the Label: Look for a label on the power bank itself. The Wh rating is usually printed alongside other specifications, such as voltage (V) and amp-hour (Ah) rating.

2. Calculate if Necessary: If the label only shows the voltage (V) and amp-hour (Ah) rating, you can calculate the Wh rating using the following formula:

   Wh = (V x Ah) / 1000

   For example, if your power bank is rated at 5V and 20000mAh (20Ah), the Wh rating would be:

   Wh = (5V x 20Ah) / 1000 = 100Wh

3. Online Product Information: If you can't find the Wh rating on the power bank itself, try searching for the product online. The manufacturer's website or retailer's product page should provide the necessary information.

Remember, Singapore Airlines allows power banks up to 100Wh without special approval. If your power bank is between 100Wh and 160Wh, you'll need to contact the airline for permission before your flight. Power banks exceeding 160Wh are generally prohibited.

Final Thoughts: Staying Charged and Staying Safe

The power bank ban on Singapore Airlines flights may seem like an inconvenience, but it's ultimately about ensuring the safety of all passengers. By understanding the reasons behind the ban and taking appropriate precautions, Aussie travellers can continue to enjoy safe and enjoyable flights. So, charge up before you fly, download your entertainment, and get ready to explore the world – safely.