February 25, 2026 | 08:48 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – Travelers who rely on power banks during flights may soon need to adjust their habits. Japan is preparing to ban the use of power banks on airplanes due to growing concerns over lithium-ion battery fires in aircraft cabins.
The planned policy would align Japan with countries such as South Korea and Australia, which have already tightened regulations on portable chargers.
According to NHK, passengers on domestic flights in Japan will be prohibited from using power banks onboard.
Each passenger will be allowed to carry a maximum of two power banks, each with a capacity not exceeding 160 watt-hours (Wh). The devices must be stored in carry-on luggage.
Why Are Power Banks a Concern?
Lithium-ion batteries, commonly used in power banks, can overheat if damaged or malfunctioning. In the confined space of an aircraft cabin, even a small spark can escalate into a serious safety emergency.
Japan has already imposed limits on battery capacity. Power banks exceeding 160 Wh are banned from the cabin, while those under 100 Wh are not subject to quantity limits. However, rising fire-related incidents have prompted authorities to consider stricter measures, including banning their use during flights altogether.
Data from Japan’s National Institute of Technology show 123 incidents involving portable batteries in 2024, a sharp increase of about 160 percent compared to 47 cases in 2020. The surge has raised alarm among aviation safety regulators.
New Rules for Power Banks on Flights
As of July 2025, passengers in Japan are still permitted to use power banks during flights, provided the devices remain visible and are not placed in overhead compartments.
Starting next April, however, Japan’s transport ministry is expected to formally prohibit passengers from using power banks to charge phones or other electronic devices during flights. Recharging power banks through seat outlets will also be banned.
Lithium-ion batteries will continue to be prohibited in checked baggage, in line with international aviation safety standards. Keeping them in the cabin allows crew members to respond quickly if overheating or fire occurs.
A Growing Global Debate
The issue extends beyond Japan. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) is discussing potential updates to international regulations governing portable batteries on aircraft following multiple fire incidents worldwide.
One high-profile case occurred in January 2025, when South Korean carrier Air Busan banned passengers from storing power banks in overhead compartments after a major runway fire destroyed one of its aircraft. The incident intensified scrutiny of lithium-ion devices in aviation.
What Travelers Should Do
Passengers traveling to Japan or flying with Japanese airlines are advised to check the capacity and number of power banks they carry.
With safety concerns taking priority, stricter oversight of electronic devices in aircraft cabins is likely to become the new norm.
Read: Singapore Denies Entry to 45,700 Foreign Tourists in 2025
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