MONTREAL – In a significant move to bolster in-flight safety, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has announced strict new specifications for lithium battery-powered power banks. These regulations, approved by the 36-state ICAO Council, aim to mitigate the fire risks associated with portable power sources in the cabin.

Starting March 27, 2026, international travelers will face two primary restrictions regarding their portable chargers:

  • Quantity Limit: Passengers will be restricted to carrying a maximum of two power banks per person.
  • Usage Ban: The recharging of power banks during flight will be strictly prohibited for all passengers.

Addressing "Emerging Risks"

The decision comes after extensive review by the ICAO Dangerous Goods Panel and the Air Navigation Commission. As lithium battery technology evolves and becomes more ubiquitous, the risk of thermal runaway—a phenomenon where a battery enters an uncontrollable, self-heating state—remains a top priority for aviation experts.

"These improvements reflect ICAO's continuing commitment to enhancing aviation safety," the organization stated, noting that the rules align with their 2050 strategic vision of achieving zero fatalities in air transport.

Operational Exceptions

While passengers face tighter controls, the ICAO clarified that flight crews are exempt from certain aspects of these restrictions. Crew members will be permitted to carry and use power banks as necessary to meet the operational requirements of the aircraft, ensuring that cockpit and cabin management tools remain powered.

Implementation Timeline

The new standards will be issued as an addendum to the Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air (Doc 9284). This document will be distributed to all 193 ICAO Member States to ensure global compliance.

Travelers are encouraged to check with their specific airlines starting in early 2026 to ensure their devices comply with these updated international safety standards before heading to the airport.