Portable charger problems on flights ‘on the rise’, watchdog warns

Portable Charger Issues on Flights Rise, Regulator Issues Warning

Portable charger problems on flights - The UK’s aviation watchdog has raised concerns about an increasing number of incidents involving power banks during flights, urging travelers to adhere to safety guidelines. As portable chargers become more popular, their potential to cause serious problems has sparked warnings from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). The regulator emphasized that these devices pose significant risks of overheating or igniting, which could endanger passengers and crew alike.

EasyJet Diversion Highlights Concerns

A recent incident involving an EasyJet flight last week underscored the growing danger. The aircraft, en route from Hurghada, Egypt, to London Luton, was diverted to Rome Fiumicino as a precaution after a passenger placed a power bank in the hold luggage. The move forced passengers to stay overnight until a rescheduled flight could take them to their destination the following day. Jonathan Nicholson of the CAA explained that such incidents are not just routine occurrences but critical situations that require immediate action.

"The rules are in place to prevent situations where a power bank could ignite in the cargo hold, causing cascading effects on the entire aircraft," Nicholson stated.

Rules for Safe Use of Power Banks

Nicholson highlighted that the basic international regulations for power banks are clear: they must be carried in a bag under the seat, not stored in overhead compartments or checked luggage. This guideline, he argued, is not an arbitrary measure but a necessary step to mitigate risks. "It’s not about being overly cautious or following rules for no reason," he said. "These are practical steps to ensure safety in the event of a malfunction."

The CAA plans to launch a campaign this summer in partnership with UK airlines to educate passengers on the rules and their rationale. The initiative aims to address the confusion among travelers, particularly those who may not fully understand the potential consequences of improper storage. Nicholson stressed that the rules apply to all rechargeable devices with lithium-ion batteries, including phones, tablets, laptops, and power banks.

Thermal Runaway Data Shows Rising Incidents

According to data from UL Standards & Engagement, a US-based non-profit safety organization, thermal runaway incidents involving lithium-ion batteries are becoming more frequent. The report, released in June 2024, noted that on average, two flights per week experience such events. Thermal runaway occurs when a battery overheats, leading to a chain reaction that can result in fires or explosions. This data is compiled through voluntary reporting by 37 passenger and cargo airlines.

Nicholson pointed out that the number of incidents has increased by 15% since 2019, when the organization began tracking the issue. He attributed this trend to the growing demand for portable chargers, which are now widely used for both personal and professional purposes. "The popularity of these devices has led to a higher likelihood of them being packed in the wrong place," he explained.

Survey Reveals Mixed Awareness Among Travelers

A survey conducted by the CAA in November 2025 found that over a third of UK passengers are aware of the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries and the rules governing their use on flights. However, many remain unclear about the specific guidelines. Nicholson noted that older passengers, particularly those over 55, were more likely to understand the rules, suggesting a generational gap in awareness.

"People often overlook the fact that power banks have a much larger battery capacity compared to devices like digital cameras or laptops," Nicholson said. "This means they can reach higher temperatures and pose greater risks if not handled properly."

The regulator also highlighted that power banks can become a fire hazard if they overheat, emphasizing the importance of quality. "Many of the cheaper products on the market are more prone to failure," he warned. Nicholson recommended investing in high-quality power banks, as poorly made batteries are more likely to cause incidents. "Even though they are convenient, power banks require careful handling, especially during travel."

Training and Precautions for Cabin Crew

Despite the risks, Nicholson acknowledged that airline crews are trained to respond to power bank emergencies. He mentioned that thermal runaway incidents, while serious, are manageable with the right procedures in place. However, he stressed that prevention is key. "The best way to avoid problems is to follow the rules and carry the device safely," he advised.

The CAA’s campaign will focus on explaining the rules to passengers, particularly those who may not be aware of the specific requirements. Nicholson emphasized that the rules are consistent across international airlines, with slight variations in advice. "Generally, the advice is the same: keep power banks in a bag under the seat, not in the hold or overhead compartments," he said.

Broader Implications for Everyday Use

While the focus is on aviation, Nicholson urged passengers to be mindful of power banks in their daily lives as well. "Many people treat their phones more carefully than their power banks," he observed. "It’s easy to ignore the potential for damage when using these devices in everyday situations." He cited examples of power banks being subjected to rough handling, such as being dropped or crushed, which can compromise their safety.

Nicholson also highlighted the need for travelers to stay informed about the specific rules for their airline and destination. "Different carriers may have slightly different guidelines, but the core principle remains the same," he said. "It’s important to understand the risks and take proactive steps to avoid them."

Call for Increased Vigilance

As the use of power banks becomes more widespread, the CAA is calling for greater vigilance among travelers. Nicholson warned that the consequences of improper storage could extend beyond a single flight. "Imagine being the passenger who inadvertently caused a diversion, leaving others stranded in a different city," he said. "This is why the rules are so strict."

The regulator’s efforts are part of a broader push to enhance safety in the aviation industry. By educating passengers and promoting awareness, the CAA hopes to reduce the frequency of incidents and ensure that power banks remain a safe and reliable source of energy during travel. Nicholson’s message is clear: "Taking the time to follow the rules can make all the difference in preventing a small issue from becoming a major crisis."

With the summer travel season approaching, the CAA’s campaign is expected to play a key role in keeping passengers informed. As the number of power bank-related incidents continues to rise, the regulator is working to ensure that safety remains a top priority for both airlines and travelers. Nicholson’s warnings serve as a reminder that even the smallest oversight can lead to significant consequences in the air.