New rule prohibits the use of power banks on flights. Understand why.

A International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), linked to United Nations Organization (ONU), announced a new rule that limits the number of power banks On flights, the measure prohibits the use of charging devices during the trip. The measure is already in effect and is expected to impact passengers in several countries. See below for details on the new rule and what changes:

What does the new ICAO rule say?

The new rule establishes that each passenger may bring at most two power banks on flights. However, although they are still allowed in carry-on baggage, the devices They may not be used on board under any circumstances.Not even for recharging cell phones or other electronics during the trip. The measure has been in effect since Friday, March 27st, and should be adopted by airlines in different countries, following international safety standards.

This measure comes after a series of incidents involving power banks on flights in recent years. Cases of overheating, fires, and even explosions have drawn the attention of authorities and airlines, raising concerns about safety inside aircraft. The decision was also based on recommendations from a panel specializing in dangerous goods and unanimously approved by the countries that make up the council. International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Although situations like these are considered rare, experts point out that lithium-ion batteries, found in cell phones, laptops, and portable chargers, can pose risks under certain conditions. One of the main problems is the so-called "thermal runaway," a process in which the battery overheats uncontrollably, potentially generating flames and even more serious fires.

Application in Brazil

In Brazil, the new guideline should be incorporated into civil aviation rules, following the pattern of National Civil Aviation Agency (ANACSince the country is a member of the organization, the changes should apply to both domestic and international flights operated by Brazilian companies.

In practice, power banks are still only allowed in carry-on baggage, while devices with a capacity above [amount missing] are not permitted. 100 Wh They may require prior authorization, and more powerful models remain prohibited. Each passenger may bring their own... maximum 2 unitswhich cannot be used to recharge cell phones or other electronic devices during the flight.

The expectation is that there will be greater standardization and oversight, with agents verifying the quantity and condition of the devices, aligning Brazil with international practices and reinforcing flight safety.

Power banks on airplanes: what can they do and what can't they do?

Bringing a power bank on a flight is still allowed, but you need to be aware of some safety rules. See below:

• Hand baggage: the device must always be in hand baggageLithium batteries are prohibited in checked baggage.

• Capacity limit: There are capacity limits. Models up to 100 Wh Devices between [the two types of devices] are generally permitted without the need for authorization. 101 Wh e 160 Wh They can only be carried with prior approval from the airline. Above this value, transport is not permitted on commercial flights.

• Dispatch at the gate: If carry-on baggage needs to be checked at the boarding gate, the passenger must remove the power bank beforehand, as it cannot go in the aircraft's cargo hold.

• Storage and protection: Ideally, the power bank should be protected, avoiding contact with metallic objects or physical damage, which reduces the risk of short circuits or overheating.

• Onboard use: Some airlines already prohibited the use or recharging of power banks during flights and limited the number of units per passenger. From now on, it will only be permitted to bring... two power banks per person. In addition, the devices They cannot be used to recharge cell phones or other electronic devices during the flight..

It's important to remember that rules may vary depending on the airline. Therefore, it's always recommended to check specific guidelines before traveling and verify the device's capacity, usually indicated in Wh, to avoid problems during boarding.

Finally, the restriction only applies to passengers. crew members They can still use portable charging devices, provided they meet the specific requirements. Therefore, it is recommended to plan ahead and ensure that devices are charged, avoiding unforeseen problems during the trip.

So, do you usually use power bank During your travels? What did you think of the new rule? Tell us in the comments and don't forget to share the post with your friends and follow us to stay up to date with more news like this and the world of technology.

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Text revised by Alexandre Marques in 30 / 03 / 2026.

Source: ICAO