CAAP strictly bans power banks
CAAP strictly bans power banks: The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has announced a strict ban on power banks exceeding 160 watt-hours (Wh) for international and domestic flights. The move is aimed at improving aviation safety and preventing incidents caused by overheating lithium-ion battery packs.
CAAP spokesperson Eric Apollonio revealed that the agency is working closely with local and international airlines to regulate the use of power banks on board air travel. This coordination extends to all major airports in the country, including the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), to ensure compliance with safety protocols.
According to the updated CAAP guidelines:
Power banks with a capacity of up to 100 Wh can be carried on board without prior approval.
Power banks between 100Wh and 160Wh require airline approval before passengers can carry them on board.Power banks with a capacity of more than 160Wh are strictly prohibited on all flights.
The recent crackdown on power banks came after an Air Busan flight caught fire at Gimhae International Airport on February 28. The fire was reportedly caused by a power bank inside a passenger’s carry-on luggage overheating. The alarming incident raised concerns about the potential dangers of lithium-ion batteries, prompting the CAAP to enforce stricter regulations.
James Connor, head of the CAAP’s flight operations department, addressed the issue in a radio interview, acknowledging that multiple flight accidents have been attributed to onboard power banks overheating and catching fire.
Power banks are essentially portable lithium-ion battery packs. While they are very convenient for passengers, their chemical composition can make them prone to overheating, especially when damaged or exposed to extreme temperatures. If a power bank catches fire, it can pose a serious fire hazard inside the aircraft, as control options are limited.
To mitigate these risks, airlines have put in place stricter regulations on how passengers can carry and store power banks during flights. The watt-hour capacity limits are intended to reduce the potential for thermal runaway, a dangerous chain reaction that can cause battery cells to overheat and explode.
CAAP strictly bans power banks
To avoid disruptions or confiscation at airport security checkpoints, travelers are advised to do the following:
- Check the watt-hour capacity of your portable batteries before packing them in your carry-on luggage.
- Be sure to adhere to airline policies regarding battery capacity limits.
- Keep portable batteries in your carry-on bags, as they are strictly prohibited from being placed in checked luggage.
- Avoid using damaged or defective portable batteries, as they are at greater risk of malfunction.
- Avoid charging devices during takeoff and landing, unless permitted by the flight crew.
CAAP stressed that failure to comply with these regulations may result in the confiscation of the power bank and travel delays.
In addition to enforcing the new regulations, CAAP is working with airlines to educate passengers on the proper handling of hazardous materials. These initiatives include:
Improve airport signage to inform passengers about power bank restrictions.
Pre-flight announcements to remind passengers of safety rules.
Train airline staff on how to handle incidents involving power banks and other devices with lithium-ion batteries.
Passengers are advised to visit airline websites or contact customer service representatives for specific guidelines before traveling. Airlines such as Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and Air Asia have also updated their policies in line with CAAP’s safety directives. Many passengers may not be familiar with watt-hour (Wh) ratings or how to calculate them. The watt-hour rating is a key factor in determining whether a power bank is allowed on a plane. It can be calculated with the following formula:
Wh = (mAh × V) ÷ 1000
For example, a 20,000mAh power bank with a voltage of 5V has a power rating of 100Wh, which makes it acceptable for carry-on luggage without airline approval. However, a 50,000mAh power bank with a voltage of 12V has a power rating of 600Wh, so it should be strictly prohibited. To ensure compliance with the regulations, passengers should check the product label or packaging of their power banks before flying.
The new CAAP regulations are in line with global aviation safety standards set by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Several countries, including the United States, Canada, and the European Union, have implemented similar restrictions on lithium-ion battery packs for air travel.
The main goal is to reduce the risk of fire on board and ensure passenger safety. As incidents involving lithium-ion batteries continue to be reported around the world, regulatory agencies are vigilant in enforcing safety measures.
Passengers carrying portable batteries that exceed the permitted watt-hour capacity may face the following consequences:
Confiscation of the portable battery by airport or airline security personnel.
Denial of boarding if the passenger refuses to comply with safety regulations.
Fines or penalties in some jurisdictions that are considered violations of aviation safety laws.
Additional security screening, which may result in flight schedule delays.
To avoid these issues, travelers should take responsibility for understanding and complying with the rules before arriving at the airport.
As technology advances and portable power solutions become more advanced, airline authorities may introduce further improvements to existing policies. Researchers and battery manufacturers are also working on developing safer alternatives to traditional lithium-ion batteries, such as solid-state batteries that promise greater thermal stability and lower fire risks.
For now, travelers should adhere to current guidelines and stay informed of updates issued by aviation authorities and airlines.
Power banks have become essential travel accessories, but their potential dangers cannot be ignored. With the strict enforcement of the CAAP 160Wh limit, travelers should be more careful about the power banks they carry on flights. By checking their devices, following airline policies, and learning about aviation safety regulations, they can ensure a smooth and trouble-free journey.
While airlines and airport authorities continue to ramp up their awareness campaigns, responsible management of lithium-ion batteries remains a shared responsibility between travelers, regulators, and industry stakeholders. The goal is simple: to ensure safe skies for all.