Sunday, March 23, 2025 Hong Kong Airlines, responding to rising safety concerns, has intensified its regulations on the use and storage of portable chargers during flights. As more travelers carry these devices to stay powered during extended vacations and treks, the risks associated with lithium battery-powered chargers—particularly their tendency to overheat or ignite—have become a growing issue. In line with other major carriers, Hong Kong Airlines is taking proactive steps to ensure passenger safety through stricter onboard safety protocols.
The risks associated with power banks on aircraft have been underscored by several recent incidents. A notable example involved Hong Kong Airlines, where a power bank caused a fire in the overhead compartment of a flight shortly after takeoff. Thanks to the quick thinking and actions of the passengers and crew, who used water and juice to douse the flames, a major disaster was prevented.
Such incidents have heightened awareness about the dangers posed by these portable chargers in air travel. In response, airlines worldwide have been revising their policies regarding the handling of power banks. Starting from April 1, 2025, one leading airline has decided to prohibit the use of portable chargers during flights altogether.
This policy revision followed an incident on a flight from Busan to Hong Kong, where a fire linked to a power bank erupted. Consequently, several airlines in South Korea and Taiwan have followed suit, imposing ba.
