Incidents Involving Power Banks on Aircraft Nearly Double

Lithium Battery Incidents on the Rise in the UK

According to УНІАН — Туризм: Lithium batteries, commonly found in power banks, smartphones, laptops, smartwatches, and vapes, are causing a growing number of safety incidents in the UK. According to the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), the number of cases where such devices were detected in checked baggage has nearly doubled over the past year. Last year, almost 650 incidents involving lithium batteries in checked luggage were recorded-almost twice as many as in 2024. Separately, cases of overheating or malfunctions rose to 206.

The CAA reports that an average of about two lithium battery incidents are now recorded each week. For example, last month, an easyJet flight had to be diverted due to a power bank that had been placed in checked baggage. Additionally, in October, a video of a fire on board an Air China flight circulated on social media, further highlighting the severity of the issue.

Safety Recommendations

Tim Alderslade, CEO of Airlines UK, noted that crews are trained to handle emergencies, but the best way to prevent incidents is to avoid them altogether during the packing stage. Giuseppe Capanna, a product safety engineer at Electrical Safety First, added that there is no access to devices in the cargo hold, so if a malfunction occurs, the consequences can be serious. He also stressed the importance of passengers only bringing certified and tested devices on trips to minimize risks during flights.

To prevent incidents, the CAA recommends the following measures for passengers:

• Power banks, smartphones, and vapes must only be carried in hand luggage.
• Each passenger is allowed no more than two power banks, and charging them on board the aircraft is prohibited.
• Laptops should be completely turned off if transported in checked baggage.

Following these guidelines can significantly reduce the risks associated with lithium batteries during air travel.

The increase in lithium battery incidents in the UK is raising concern among aviation authorities and passengers. The problem of overheating and malfunctions in these devices demands heightened attention to safety during flights. The CAA's recommendations are designed to mitigate risks and ensure the safety of everyone involved in the aviation process.

As incidents with lithium batteries continue to rise, recent events highlight the potential dangers associated with power banks. For instance, an emergency landing prompted by a power bank in luggage underscores the urgency for travelers to adhere to safety guidelines. Understanding these risks can help ensure safer air travel for everyone.