CAAP Bans Power Banks Over 160Wh on Flights Amid Safety Concerns

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has announced that power banks exceeding 160 watt-hours (Wh) are strictly prohibited on both domestic and international flights. The agency issued the reminder on Tuesday as part of its ongoing efforts to regulate lithium-ion battery packs, which pose potential fire hazards.

CAAP spokesman Eric Apolonio said the agency is working with both local and foreign airlines at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and other major airports nationwide to ensure compliance with the restriction.

The renewed focus on power bank safety follows a February 28 incident in South Korea, where an Air Busan aircraft caught fire at Gimhae International Airport. Authorities suspect that an overheating power bank inside a passenger’s carry-on bag may have triggered the fire.

CAAP flight operations department head James Conner addressed growing concerns about aviation safety in a radio interview, citing recent incidents in which power banks were suspected of causing onboard fires. He explained that while passengers can carry power banks up to 100Wh without restrictions, those between 100Wh and 160Wh require airline approval. Any power bank exceeding 160Wh is strictly banned from flights.

The agency is also working with airlines to raise passenger awareness about hazardous materials and the proper handling of battery-powered devices.

Under CAAP’s current guidelines:
• Power banks up to 100Wh are permitted in carry-on luggage without prior approval.
• Power banks between 100Wh and 160Wh require airline approval.
• Power banks exceeding 160Wh are strictly prohibited on all flights.

Passengers are advised to check their power banks’ specifications before traveling to avoid potential issues at airport security checkpoints. (GFB)