Travellers flying out of Singapore allowed only 2 power banks from Apr 15; extras to be discarded

[SINGAPORE] From Apr 15, travellers departing Singapore can carry up to only two power banks in their hand luggage, as part of new rules imposed by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

The restriction applies to all rechargeable battery packs, including those with capacities of up to 100 watt-hour (Wh) and those between 100 Wh and 160 Wh that require prior approval.

In a statement on Monday (Apr 6), the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) said passengers carrying more than two power banks will be made to dispose of any extra power banks before boarding.

The new regulations were put in place by ICAO on Apr 2, to “update safety requirements associated with the carriage and use of power banks on board aircraft”.

CAAS said the international regulator’s decision aims to reduce fire risks while still meeting travellers’ needs, as the lithium batteries in power banks can pose a fire hazard on flights if they overheat or short-circuit.

ICAO announced the measures on Mar 27, saying they took effect immediately. It added that passengers will also be prohibited from charging their power banks during the flight.

Since Apr 1, 2025, Singapore Airlines (SIA) and its low-cost arm Scoot have prohibited passengers from using or charging power banks in flight. This came after a series of cabin fire incidents on carriers such as Batik Air and Air Busan.

According to the SIA and Scoot websites, power banks are treated as spare lithium batteries.

Under current rules, passengers can carry up to 20 power banks if each does not exceed 100 Wh, according to the SIA and Scoot websites as at Monday. For power banks with a capacity of between 100 Wh and 160 Wh, only two may be taken on board.

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CAAS said it will work with airlines to roll out the new measures in a “smooth and orderly” manner, adding that the airlines will inform their respective passengers.

Information about the new restrictions will also be put up at various parts of Changi Airport to notify travellers of the new rules.

Although the cap on the number of power banks will apply for every passenger, the authority advised travellers to check with the respective airlines they are flying with for any specific restrictions that the airlines may have regarding power banks. THE STRAITS TIMES