Singapore Tightens Power Bank Rules on Planes, Maximum 2 Units

Passengers flying from Singapore will, from 15 April 2026, be permitted to carry a maximum of two power banks in their cabin baggage only. If the number exceeds this limit, the excess devices must be left behind or discarded before the boarding process. In an official statement on 6 April, the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) emphasised that staff will require passengers carrying more than two power banks to dispose of the surplus before boarding the aircraft. “This new requirement will help reduce the risk of fires caused by power banks during flights,” said Foong Ling Huei, Director of Flight Standards at CAAS. The rule applies to all flights departing from Singapore. CAAS explained that this policy forms part of the latest aviation safety regulations, referencing the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) guidelines on the carriage of lithium batteries on aircraft. The restriction covers all types of rechargeable batteries, including power banks with capacities up to 100 watt-hours (Wh), as well as devices with capacities between 100Wh and 160Wh that were previously allowed with airline approval. Under the new rule, the number of devices is the primary limiting factor, regardless of capacity. Lithium batteries are considered to pose risks of overheating and potential fire if damaged or short-circuited. Incidents involving power banks and portable batteries in aircraft cabins have been a growing concern for global regulators in recent years. In line with ICAO guidelines, power banks remain prohibited in checked baggage and must be carried in the cabin for direct monitoring by cabin crew. Singapore Airlines (SIA) and its low-cost carrier, Scoot, have banned the use or charging of power banks during flights since 1 April 2025. This policy was implemented following a series of fire incidents in aircraft cabins on various airlines.