Beginning December 15, Qantas and its offshoot Jetstar will enforce new restrictions regarding the use of power banks and similar lithium-powered gadgets during flights. This move aligns with a broader trend in the airline industry, as carriers aim to address the growing prevalence of these devices among passengers.

According to a survey conducted by the International Air Transport Association, a significant number of travelers are now flying with lithium-powered devices. The study highlighted that 44 percent of passengers carry a power bank, 83 percent have a phone, and 60 percent bring a laptop on board. These statistics underscore the importance of ensuring safety regulations keep pace with evolving passenger habits.

In light of these developments, Qantas and Virgin Australia are among the airlines that have decided to restrict the use of power banks during flights. This decision stems from safety concerns associated with lithium batteries, especially those found in devices from lesser-known brands. While major tech companies like Apple and Samsung have rigorously tested their batteries, Wesley Dose, a battery expert and senior lecturer at the University of Sydney, warns that cheaper devices may lack adequate safety measures, increasing the risk of incidents.

The move by these airlines reflects a growing acknowledgment of the potential hazards posed by lithium-powered devices in the air. It highlights the need for passengers to be aware of the quality and safety of the electronic devices they choose to bring aboard.

Qantas and Virgin Australia join a host of other carriers blocking the use of power banks on board. Source: AAP / Paul Miller

Wesley Dose, a battery researcher and senior lecturer in the School of Chemistry at the University of Sydney, said: “Some lower quality, cheaper devices have fewer safeguards, which comes with an increased risk of an incident involving these products.”

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission warned consumers in July there was a growing list of defective power banks that were at risk of overheating and catching fire.

The plane was preparing to take off from Busan’s international airport for a flight to Hong Kong when the fire started.

Is a power bank likely to catch fire on a plane?

“… the main challenge is that the potential consequences of an incident on a plane, especially while in flight, are more severe than other situations.”

Why do lithium batteries catch fire?

The vast majority of lithium batteries, when manufactured appropriately, are safe, according to the experts.

The risk increases with manufacturing defects, damage from dropping or crushing, cheap or poorly made batteries, overcharging or incorrect storage.

How do I safely use power banks?