Airlines all over the world are imposing restrictions on the number of bags you can carry, as well as on what you can use during the flight. Turkey is no exception. It has joined the ranks of those who have restricted the use of power banks on board planes. This is in response to the growing incidents involving power banks.

New rules

Turkey has changed the rules following an update from the International Civil Aviation Organisation last month. The rules on what passengers can take on board are set by the country’s civil aviation authority and also by the airlines themselves.

Fire hazards

Portable chargers pose a hidden risk. “The main problem with power banks is the lithium-ion batteries they contain. If they are damaged or faulty, they can pose a fire hazard,” says travel consultant Colin Pearson, who works with boutique hotel Stanton House Inn.

Under the new rules, each passenger can take a maximum of two portable batteries. The use of power banks to charge electronic devices during flights is strongly discouraged and the use of portable chargers alone is strictly prohibited.

The aircraft had to return

Last year, a plane from Istanbul to Seoul had to return to the departure airport after a three-hour flight. One of the passengers on board lost his power bank. The device could not be found. Due to the real risk of fire, the plane was diverted. Already then, the SHGM had advised Turkish Airlines to consider restricting or banning power banks during flights.

Cases in Poland

Power banks are a threat anywhere in the world. Several cases of exploding power banks have also been reported on flights to and from Poland. Several hundred incidents have been reported worldwide. As a result, baggage checks are being tightened at Polish domestic airports. The aim is to check that the devices being transported meet the standards.

━━ ( Source: Atharva Whaval /  Unsplash+ )

Tips for travellers

Remember, it’s a good idea to check the rules of a particular airline before you fly. They may vary from airline to airline. Generally, passengers can take power banks with a capacity of up to 100 watt-hours on board without having to inform the airline. However, portable chargers with a capacity of between 100 and 160 watt-hours usually need special approval. Chargers over 160 watt-hours are not allowed on board the aircraft at all.

What do I need to know? Power banks never belong in checked baggage. You can only take them in your carry-on. Also check whether the airline allows the device to be placed in the overhead compartments. Some airlines only allow them to be carried on the seats. Be sure to prepare in advance so that you are not unpleasantly surprised at the airport. If you want to avoid problems altogether, leave the power bank at home if you can.