Airlines are now implementing stricter regulations on passengers carrying common electronic devices in checked baggage, particularly in response to the widespread ban on power banks.
Several airlines have prohibited the use of power banks on flights due to safety concerns about potential fire hazards. This includes Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Emirates, and Cathay Pacific. In a similar vein, certain airlines are now restricting Bluetooth earbuds, such as Apple AirPods, from being stored in checked luggage. Taiwanese carriers like EVA Air, UNI Air, and Tigerair have all enforced this new rule.
Similar to power banks, Bluetooth earbuds contain lithium batteries, which pose a fire risk, especially when left charging in their cases. To address this issue, the New Zealand Aviation Authority has banned the packing of AirPods and wireless earbuds in checked baggage on flights under its jurisdiction.
Passengers are advised to carry wireless earbuds and AirPods in their carry-on luggage only and are allowed a limited number of spare batteries or power banks in their carry-on. Airlines like Air New Zealand specify that these devices must not be placed in checked luggage.
Following incidents of onboard fires linked to faulty power banks, airlines are reviewing their policies on portable chargers. For instance, Air Busan was the first to prohibit battery packs after an aircraft was grounded due to a power bank fire. Emirates, a major airline, also banned power banks last October.
Aviation regulators like the UK Civil Aviation Authority recommend transporting lithium batteries and power banks in hand luggage and ensuring they are turned off to minimize fire risks. British airlines have not yet imposed complete bans on Bluetooth earbuds in hand luggage.
Tigerair and UNI Air have stated that electronic devices with lithium-ion batteries, including earphone charging cases, must be carried in hand luggage for safety reasons and are not allowed in checked baggage.
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