Power banks may only be carried in hand luggage. It is strictly forbidden to place portable batteries in checked luggage due to the risk of lithium-ion cells catching fire spontaneously. Without requiring additional authorisation, airlines accept devices with a capacity of up to 100 Wh (approximately 27,000 mAh).
On 1 January 2026, the updated regulations of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) came into force, clarifying the procedures for the carriage and stowage of lithium batteries in the aircraft cabin.
Can you take a power bank on a plane?
Yes, you can take a power bank on a plane, but only into the passenger cabin.
The main rule for passenger air travel is that portable chargers must remain in hand luggage throughout the flight. This is necessary so that, in the event of a battery overheating or emitting smoke, the crew can promptly use fire-extinguishing equipment.
Where to carry a power bank: in your hold luggage or hand luggage
Power banks may only be carried in hand luggage. If you check the device in as hold luggage, it will be removed during security screening at the airport, and your luggage may not be loaded onto the flight.
Rules for positioning the device in the passenger compartment:
- The power bank must be kept in the bag under the seat or in the front seat pocket.
- It is not advisable to place external batteries on the overhead luggage racks, as it is more difficult to spot the first signs of overheating in good time there.
- The device’s contacts must be protected from accidental contact with metal objects (keys, coins, plugs and cables). To do this, use the manufacturer’s case or a sturdy zip-lock bag.
What is the maximum capacity of a power bank permitted on a plane?
The permissible capacity of a power bank is measured in energy capacity — watt-hours (W·h or Wh). Aviation standards classify these devices into three categories:
Power bank up to 100 Wh
These are the majority of standard devices with a capacity ranging from 5,000 to 20,000–27,000 mAh. They may be carried without any prior authorisation. Typically, a passenger may carry up to two such devices.
Power banks ranging from 100 to 160 Wh
This category includes high-capacity batteries (approximately 27,000–43,000 mAh) used to power laptops or professional equipment. To carry them, you must obtain prior approval from the airline when checking in for your flight.
A power bank with a capacity of over 160 Wh
The carriage of such devices on passenger aircraft is strictly prohibited. They are classified as dangerous goods and may only be transported on specialised cargo flights.
How to calculate the watt-hours of a power bank
Most manufacturers state the capacity in milliampere-hours (mA·h or mAh). If the case does not show the value in watt-hours (Wh), it can be calculated using the following formula:
W·h = (mA·h × V) ÷ 1000
In most lithium-ion power banks, the voltage of the battery cells is 3.7 V.
Calculation example for a 20,000 mAh battery: 20,000 mAh × 3.7 V ÷ 1,000 = 74 Wh
The value obtained (74 Wh) is below the limit of 100 Wh, so this device may be taken into the cabin without any additional authorisation.
Important: If the markings on the power bank’s casing have worn away completely and it is impossible to read the technical specifications, the airport security service is entitled to confiscate the device during a security check.
Rules for using a power bank during a flight
There are strict restrictions on the use of portable chargers on board the aircraft:
- It is not permitted to charge the power bank itself from the aircraft’s on-board power supply during the flight.
- The use of power banks to charge mobile phones or tablets during take-off and landing is prohibited.
- During a long-haul flight, the use of an external battery is governed by the specific carrier’s internal regulations. Most airlines allow you to charge your gadgets provided the power bank is within your sight.
For standard trips, it is best to choose a power bank with a capacity of 10,000–20,000 mAh. This is enough for several full smartphone charge cycles, and the device itself is guaranteed to meet safety requirements.
When organising complex corporate trips or group flights involving a large amount of equipment, FlyPoint’s specialists help to arrange the carriage of non-standard equipment with airlines in advance and avoid delays during security checks at the airport.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you take a power bank on a plane? Yes, power banks may be carried in hand luggage. It is not permitted to check them in as hold luggage.
Can I check a power bank in as hold luggage? No, IATA regulations prohibit the carriage of power banks in checked-in luggage due to the risk of the battery catching fire.
Which power banks are allowed on a plane without authorisation? Power banks with a capacity of up to 100 Wh (approximately 27,000 mAh) may be carried without requiring additional authorisation.
How many mA·h can you take on a plane? Devices with a capacity of up to 27,000 mAh (at a voltage of 3.7 V) are generally permitted. Devices with a capacity of between 27,000 and 43,000 mAh require the airline’s approval.
Can I use a power bank during a flight? The use of power banks is prohibited during take-off and landing. During cruise, this is permitted under the rules of most airlines.
Can I carry two power banks in my hand luggage? Indeed, most airlines allow passengers to carry up to two power banks with a capacity of up to 100 Wh per passenger.
What should you do if the capacity isn’t stated on the power bank? If there are no power or capacity markings on the casing, airport security may confiscate the device during a security check.
