With recent aviation safety incidents sparking renewed concern among travellers, the question of whether power banks are allowed on flights has once again come into the spotlight. In January 2025, a power bank caught fire in an overhead compartment before takeoff, resulting in a flight delay and injuries to several passengers. The incident has prompted many Malaysians to ask: Do I need to check in my power bank? Are there any restrictions? Can I use it during the flight?
In response to these growing concerns, several airlines — including EVA Air and China Airlines — have announced tighter regulations starting March 2025. To help you fly with greater peace of mind, Trip.com has put together the latest guidelines on carrying power banks during air travel, especially for those departing from or travelling to Malaysia.
Are Power Banks Allowed on Planes? Here's What Malaysian Travellers Need to Know
Yes, power banks are allowed on planes, but only in carry-on luggage. Power banks with a capacity of under 100Wh are generally permitted without restriction by most airlines. However, those rated between 100Wh and 160Wh may require prior approval and are usually limited to two units per passenger.
Due to recent safety concerns, several airlines — including Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, and EVA Air — have prohibited the use and charging of power banks during flights. To avoid delays or confiscation at the airport, always check your airline's latest regulations before your flight.
⚡ Power Bank Rules by Airline
| Airline ✈️ | Checked Baggage 🧳 | Carry-On Baggage 👜 |
|---|---|---|
EVA Air | ❌ Not Allowed | ✅ Under 100Wh: Allowed 🔶 100–160Wh: Max 2 with approval ❌ Over 160Wh: Not Allowed |
China Airlines | ❌ Not Allowed | ✅ Under 100Wh: Allowed 🔶 100–160Wh: Max 2 with approval ❌ Over 160Wh: Not Allowed |
STARLUX Airlines | ❌ Not Allowed | ✅ Under 100Wh: Allowed 🔶 100–160Wh: Max 2 with approval ❌ Over 160Wh: Not Allowed |
Tigerair Taiwan | ❌ Not Allowed | ✅ Under 100Wh: Allowed 🔶 100–160Wh: Max 2 with approval ❌ Over 160Wh: Not Allowed |
Cathay Pacific | ❌ Not Allowed | ✅ Under 100Wh: Allowed 🔶 100–160Wh: Max 2 with approval ❌ Over 160Wh: Not Allowed |
Korean Air | ❌ Not Allowed | ✅ Under 100Wh: Max 5 units allowed ❌ 100–160Wh: Not Allowed ❌ Over 160Wh: Not Allowed |
Asiana Airlines | ❌ Not Allowed | ✅ Under 100Wh: Max 5 units allowed ❌ 100–160Wh: Not Allowed ❌ Over 160Wh: Not Allowed |
T’way Air | ❌ Not Allowed | ✅ Under 100Wh: Max 5 units allowed ❌ 100–160Wh: Not Allowed ❌ Over 160Wh: Not Allowed |
Air Busan | ❌ Not Allowed | ✅ Under 100Wh: Max 5 units allowed ❌ 100–160Wh: Not Allowed ❌ Over 160Wh: Not Allowed |
Japan Airlines | ❌ Not Allowed | ✅ Under 100Wh: Allowed 🔶 100–160Wh: Max 2 with approval ❌ Over 160Wh: Not Allowed |
✈️ Tip for Malaysian Travellers:
Whether you're flying from KLIA, Penang, or Kota Kinabalu, make sure your power bank meets the airline’s requirements. When in doubt, leave it out — it's better to be safe than to risk delays or having your device confiscated.
⚡ In-Flight Use Rules for Power Banks (For Malaysian Travellers)
Even though you are allowed to bring power banks on board as part of your carry-on luggage, using or charging them during the flight is strictly prohibited by many airlines due to safety concerns. Below is a summary of each airline’s in-flight use rules and storage requirements:
| Airline ✈️ | In-Flight Use | Storage Requirement | Special Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|
EVA Air | ❌ Not Allowed | Must be kept in hand luggage | Capacity must be clearly labeled |
China Airlines | ❌ Not Allowed | Must be kept in hand luggage | Capacity must be clearly labeled |
STARLUX Airlines | ❌ Not Allowed | Must be kept in hand luggage | Capacity must be clearly labeled |
Tigerair Taiwan | ❌ Not Allowed | Must be kept in hand luggage | Capacity must be clearly labeled |
Cathay Pacific | ❌ Not Allowed | Must be kept in hand luggage | Capacity must be clearly labeled |
Korean Air | ❌ Not Allowed | Must be kept in hand luggage | Capacity must be clearly labeled; power and USB ports must be taped |
Asiana Airlines | ❌ Not Allowed | Must be kept in hand luggage | Capacity must be clearly labeled; power and USB ports must be taped |
T’way Air | ❌ Not Allowed | Must be kept in hand luggage | Capacity must be clearly labeled; power and USB ports must be taped |
Air Busan | ❌ Not Allowed | Must be kept in hand luggage | Capacity must be clearly labeled; power and USB ports must be taped |
Japan Airlines | ❌ Not Allowed | Must be kept in hand luggage | Capacity must be clearly labeled |
✈️ Important Reminder for Malaysians:
When flying from or within Malaysia, never store your power bank in checked baggage, and avoid using or charging it during the flight, even if it seems convenient. Always ensure that your power bank has a clearly marked capacity in watt-hours (Wh) to avoid complications during security checks. Some airlines may even confiscate devices that are improperly labeled or exceed capacity limits.
🔋 How to Convert Power Bank Capacity to Wh (Watt-Hours)?
To ensure your power bank complies with airline regulations in Malaysia, you can easily calculate its capacity in watt-hours (Wh) using the following formula:
Wh = (mAh × Voltage) ÷ 1000
Most power banks operate at a standard voltage of 3.7V.
Here are some examples for reference:
- A 10,000 mAh power bank is approximately 37 Wh
- A 20,000 mAh power bank is approximately 74 Wh
According to airline rules, the maximum capacity allowed in carry-on luggage without special approval is generally under 100 Wh, which is about 27,000 mAh at 3.7V.
✈️ Tip for Malaysian Travellers:
If your power bank does not clearly display its capacity in Wh, use this formula to convert the mAh rating. This will help you ensure your power bank meets airline safety regulations before you travel.
✈️ How to Keep Your Phone Charged During a Flight
Worried about your phone running out of battery while flying? Here are some useful tips to help you stay powered up throughout your journey:
- Fully charge your phone before boarding and activate battery saver mode to reduce power consumption.
- Bring a power bank that complies with airline regulations (under 100Wh) so you can recharge your devices once you’ve landed.
- Take advantage of in-flight power outlets—many international flights offer USB ports or AC power sockets for charging.
- Turn on airplane mode to conserve battery, and pre-download music, videos, or maps so you can use them offline during the flight.
💡 Tip for Malaysian Travellers: When booking your flight on Trip.com, you can check details about the aircraft model and onboard amenities—such as meals, Wi-Fi, and USB charging ports—so you can plan your trip and pack your essentials accordingly.
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Frequently Asked Questions: Power Banks on Planes
Can I bring a power bank on a plane?
Yes, you may bring a power bank on board, but it must be carried in your hand luggage — not in checked baggage. The power bank’s capacity must be clearly labeled.Is there a capacity limit for power banks?
Yes, there are specific limits. Power banks with a capacity under 100Wh are allowed without restrictions. For power banks between 100Wh and 160Wh, you may carry up to two units, but only with airline approval. Power banks exceeding 160Wh are strictly prohibited on passenger flights.Can I bring a 20,000mAh power bank on a plane?
Yes, a 20,000mAh power bank usually converts to around 74Wh, which is below the 100Wh limit and allowed on flights without special approval.Can I use a power bank during the flight?
No, most airlines prohibit using power banks during the flight. This includes both charging your devices with the power bank and charging the power bank itself.Can I charge my phone on the plane?
Yes, many flights provide USB ports or AC power outlets for charging devices. When booking your flight on Trip.com, you can check if these services are available. However, please note that aircraft type and onboard facilities are subject to change, and final confirmation depends on the airline’s arrangements.