Portable charger problems on flights ‘on the rise’, watchdog warns
Portable charger problems on flights ‘on the rise’, watchdog warns
Portable charger problems on flights – The proliferation of power banks has led to an increasing number of flight disruptions globally, according to the UK’s aviation regulator. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has raised concerns about the growing risks associated with these devices, urging passengers to familiarize themselves with the regulations. Recent incidents involving power banks have prompted the CAA to emphasize the need for heightened awareness, particularly regarding their storage and use during air travel.
Incident Sparks CAA Alert
Last week, a UK-bound EasyJet flight was forced to divert to Rome after a passenger placed a portable charger in the hold luggage. The decision to change course was made as a precaution, highlighting the potential dangers of improper storage. This incident underscores the CAA’s call for passengers to adhere to guidelines, which include keeping power banks in carry-on bags rather than checked baggage. Jonathan Nicholson, a spokesperson for the CAA, stressed that these rules are not arbitrary. “It’s not just someone being overly cautious,” he explained, “these restrictions are crucial for safety.”
Nicholson emphasized that power banks pose a far greater risk compared to other electronic devices like digital cameras or laptops. “These things, when they catch fire, they go—really go—big issues and big fires,” he said. While cabin crew are trained to handle emergencies, the severity of thermal runaway incidents can escalate quickly, endangering both passengers and aircraft. The CAA is now planning a summer campaign in collaboration with UK airlines to clarify the rules and their rationale, especially for holidaymakers and business travelers.
Thermal Runaway Data Reveals Rising Concerns
According to data published by UL Standards & Engagement, a US-based non-profit safety organization, thermal runaway incidents involving lithium-ion batteries have become more frequent. The report, released in June 2024, indicated that on average, two flights per week experience such incidents. This represents a 15% increase since 2019, when the organization began collecting voluntary reports from 37 passenger and cargo airlines. The data covers all rechargeable devices with lithium-ion batteries, including power banks, phones, tablets, and laptops.
Thermal runaway occurs when a lithium-ion battery overheats, potentially leading to fires or explosions. The CAA highlighted this risk, noting that power banks often contain larger, more powerful batteries than typical electronics. “They get a lot hotter,” Nicholson said, underscoring the need for strict handling protocols. This trend has prompted regulators to revisit guidelines, ensuring that the public understands the gravity of these safety measures.
Passenger Awareness and Knowledge Gaps
A recent survey conducted by the CAA in November 2025 revealed that over a third of UK passengers recognize lithium batteries and are aware of the rules governing their use. However, many remain unclear about the specifics. “They know the rules exist, but they don’t know what they involve,” Nicholson noted. Interestingly, older passengers, particularly those over 55, demonstrated better understanding of the guidelines, suggesting that age may correlate with greater adherence to safety practices.
Despite this, the CAA warned that even informed passengers might overlook critical details. “You can have a power bank in your bag, and you don’t think twice about it,” Nicholson remarked. He pointed out that these devices are often treated carelessly, with users “bash[ing] them around” without considering the damage. This casual approach, he argued, increases the likelihood of malfunctions during flight, which can have catastrophic consequences.
Global Rule Variations and Recommendations
While airline rules generally align in their core recommendations, there are minor differences in the specifics. Most carriers advise that power banks be stored in carry-on bags and not placed in overhead compartments or the hold. Nicholson acknowledged this variation but stressed the importance of consistency. “It’s not just about the airline’s policy,” he said, “it’s about the collective responsibility of passengers to follow these guidelines.”
He urged travelers to invest in high-quality power banks, noting that many cheaper models on the market carry a higher risk of failure. “There are a lot of not so good products around,” he warned. The CAA is also working to bridge knowledge gaps by educating the public on the dangers of lithium-ion batteries. “People tend to look after their mobile phones better than their power banks,” Nicholson observed, highlighting a common oversight in daily habits.
Broader Implications for Everyday Safety
The CAA’s focus on power banks during air travel extends beyond the skies. Nicholson emphasized that the same precautions apply in everyday situations, such as storing these devices in vehicles or homes. “The risks aren’t limited to flights,” he stated, “they’re a part of our daily lives.” This broader perspective aligns with the CAA’s campaign, which aims to ensure passengers are mindful of how they handle portable chargers in all contexts.
The authority’s efforts are part of a larger push to address the growing reliance on portable electronics. As more travelers depend on these devices for communication and entertainment, the importance of their safe use becomes increasingly critical. Nicholson’s comments reflect a growing concern among regulators and safety organizations, who are working to prevent incidents that could threaten passengers and cargo alike. With the summer campaign set to launch, the hope is that increased awareness will lead to fewer disruptions and a safer travel experience for all.