Japan restricts power bank use on flights from April

International

New safety measure follows incidents involving lithium-ion batteries / Authorities expand existing in-flight handling rules

Japan will introduce new restrictions on the use of power banks aboard commercial flights starting in April, according to media reports. The measure follows a series of safety concerns linked to lithium-ion batteries, which are widely used in portable charging devices.

Japan’s Transport Ministry has informed airlines of the updated precautionary framework, Kyodo News reported, citing sources familiar with the decision.

Charging functions affected by new rules

The restrictions will cover both the use of power banks for charging personal electronic devices and the recharging of power banks via onboard power outlets. The move represents a tightening of existing safety guidelines rather than a fundamental change in baggage policy.

Lithium-ion batteries are considered a potential fire risk under certain conditions. According to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, battery ignition may occur following physical damage or as a result of internal degradation over time.

Precautions expanded after earlier guidance

Japanese authorities have progressively strengthened safety recommendations in recent years. Since July, travellers have been advised not to store power banks in overhead compartments and instead keep them within immediate reach during flights.

Power banks are already prohibited in checked baggage under international aviation safety regulations. Carry-on transport remains permitted but is subject to limits regarding battery capacity and quantity.

Safety concerns drive regulatory response

The latest measure follows several high-profile incidents involving battery-related fires in the aviation sector. Among them was a fire aboard a low-cost carrier flight operated by Air Busan in January of the previous year, which investigators believe may have originated from a portable battery device.

Aviation authorities globally continue to review battery safety protocols as passenger reliance on portable electronics grows. Japan’s updated rules align with broader industry efforts to mitigate onboard fire risks associated with personal electronic equipment.