New aviation rules taking effect in mid-April will restrict how many power banks passengers can carry and how they can be used in-flight.
Travellers flying from or passing through Singapore’s world-class aviation hub will soon need to take note of a new in-flight safety rule. From 12:01am on April 15, 2026, passengers departing from Singapore Changi Airport will be limited to carrying a maximum of two power banks on board their flights.
The directive, announced by the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore, aligns with updated global safety standards issued by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). These new requirements are aimed at reducing fire risks associated with lithium batteries, which are commonly found in portable chargers.
Under the new rules, passengers found carrying more than two power banks will be required to dispose of the excess devices before boarding. In addition, the use of power banks during flights will be restricted – they must not be used to charge personal devices, nor can they be charged while on board.
ICAO guidelines further recommend power bank charge capacity limits of 100 Wh (roughly 20,000–27,000 mAh, depending on voltage); many consumers have units of 10,000 mAh or less, which are never an issue for carry-ons. For ease of transit, passengers should ensure the capacity is plainly labelled on their power banks.
The reasoning for the policies is straightforward. Lithium batteries, while generally safe, can overheat or short-circuit under certain conditions, posing a potential fire hazard in the confined environment of an aircraft cabin. By limiting both the number of devices, their capacity, and their in-flight use, regulators aim to mitigate these risks without significantly inconveniencing travellers.
For many Malaysia-based travellers, particularly those heading to Europe, North Asia, or North America, Changi Airport remains a popular transit hub thanks to its extensive connectivity and efficient operations. As such, this new rule is likely to affect a substantial number of passengers from Kuala Lumpur and beyond.
It would also not be surprising to see similar measures adopted at other regional airports in due course, including Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Aviation authorities across Asia tend to move in step when it comes to safety regulations, particularly when guided by ICAO recommendations.
For now, the advice is simple: check your carry-on before heading to the airport, limit yourself to two power banks, and avoid using them during the flight. With clear communication expected at airport checkpoints and boarding gates, compliance should be straightforward.
As air travel continues to evolve, even small devices like power banks are coming under closer scrutiny. For passengers, staying informed remains the easiest way to ensure a smooth journey.
