AirAsia Philippines has announced the strict enforcement of new guidelines regarding power bank usage on all its flights. The low-cost carrier is implementing safety standards established in the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) Advisory Circular No. 18-005, dated March 7, 2025, which prohibits the use of portable electronic devices powered by lithium-ion batteries during flights.
Under the comprehensive regulations, passengers are still permitted to carry up to two power banks per person, provided each unit does not exceed 100 watt-hours (Wh). The CAAP advisory explicitly classifies power banks as “spare batteries” that require additional screening measures and must remain unused throughout the flight.
The CAAP circular, which addresses “Guidelines for the Safe Transport of Portable Electronic Devices Powered by Li-Batt for Air Transport,” introduces specific storage requirements based on recent incidents of in-flight fires caused by lithium-ion batteries.
Power banks must not be placed in overhead compartments and should instead be kept with passengers’ personal belongings under the seat or in the seat pocket directly in front of them.
“While we understand that power banks are now part of travel essentials for our guests, safety always comes first at AirAsia. We highly encourage our guests to charge their electronic devices prior to boarding and ensure maximum compliance that is enforced by our highly trained on ground and inflight crew,” said First Officer Steve Dailisan, AirAsia Philippines Communications and Public Affairs Head.
The airline will provide reminders to all passengers before boarding about this policy. Those found using power banks during flights will initially receive a warning. If non-compliance continues, the device will be confiscated and returned upon landing, according to AirAsia.
Passengers traveling to South Korea should note that additional regulations apply to these routes. The CAAP advisory also stipulates that lithium batteries exceeding 160Wh are strictly prohibited onboard under any circumstances.
Leave a comment