ICAO Introduces New Global Restrictions on Power Banks to Strengthen Aviation Safety

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has issued new global restrictions on the carriage and use of power banks on commercial flights, following growing safety concerns linked to lithium‑ion battery incidents. The updated specifications introduced through an addendum to the Technical Instructions on 27 March 2026 formally limit passengers and crew to carrying no more than two power banks and prohibit recharging them during flight.

Under the revised rules, power banks are now separated from spare batteries as a distinct category of dangerous goods. ICAO stated that the changes reflect emerging technical understanding of lithium‑battery risks and were endorsed by the ICAO Air Navigation Commission before being approved by the 36‑member ICAO Council. The addendum will be circulated to all 193 ICAO Member States.

To support operators in implementing the new requirements, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released a dedicated Guidance Document. The changes will be incorporated into the 68th edition of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR), which comes into effect on 1 January 2027.

ICAO’s decision follows a series of incidents involving lithium‑powered devices, with power banks identified as a recurring fire hazard. One of the most serious events occurred on 28 January 2025, when an Air Busan Airbus A321 caught fire on the apron at Gimhae International Airport. Investigators determined that a portable power bank stored in an overhead bin was the most likely cause of the fire. The aircraft was destroyed and declared a total hull loss.

ICAO noted that the updated restrictions are part of its broader long‑term safety strategy, which includes reducing risks associated with dangerous goods as personal electronic devices become more prevalent in air travel.