Portable Charger Problems on Flights ‘On the Rise,’ Watchdog Warns

Portable charger problems on flights – UK aviation authorities have issued a warning about the increasing number of incidents involving power banks on flights, emphasizing the need for heightened passenger awareness. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) highlighted that portable chargers pose “serious risks” of overheating or igniting fires, urging travelers to adhere to specific guidelines. Jonathan Nicholson, a spokesperson for the CAA, stressed that rules such as restricting power banks from checked luggage are not merely bureaucratic formalities, but essential precautions to prevent catastrophic outcomes.

Incident Example: Diverted Flight Due to Power Bank in Hold

Last week, a UK-bound EasyJet flight was rerouted to Rome Fiumicino as a precautionary measure after a passenger placed a portable charger in the aircraft’s hold. The incident prompted the crew to assess the situation, leading to a temporary diversion. Passengers were stranded overnight before resuming their journey on a rebooked flight the following day. This event underscores the potential dangers of improper storage, according to the CAA, which has since called for greater vigilance among travelers.

Nicholson pointed out that the rise in power bank-related issues is closely tied to their growing popularity. He noted that these devices, unlike digital cameras or laptops, contain significantly larger and more powerful lithium-ion batteries. “Power banks have a much bigger battery, much stronger, and get a lot hotter,” he explained. This characteristic makes them more prone to thermal runaway—a condition where batteries overheat uncontrollably, leading to fires or explosions. While cabin crew are trained to handle such emergencies, Nicholson emphasized that the risk is still substantial.

Data Insights: Rising Incidents and Industry Response

According to data released by UL Standards & Engagement, a U.S.-based nonprofit safety organization, there is an average of two flights per week experiencing thermal runaway incidents involving lithium-ion batteries. This figure, compiled through voluntary reports from 37 passenger and cargo airlines, covers all rechargeable devices, including power banks, smartphones, tablets, and laptops. The statistics reveal a 15% increase in such incidents since 2019, when the organization began tracking the data. This trend suggests that the problem is not isolated but rather a growing concern across the global aviation sector.

The CAA plans to launch a summer campaign in collaboration with UK airlines to clarify the rules surrounding power banks. The initiative aims to educate both holidaymakers and business travelers on how to safely use these devices during flights. Nicholson said the campaign will focus on explaining the rationale behind the restrictions, highlighting the critical importance of compliance. “The basic set of international rules is straightforward,” he said, “but many passengers remain unaware of the potential consequences of ignoring them.”

Despite the rise in incidents, a recent CAA survey of 1,000 UK travelers in November 2025 suggests that public knowledge of lithium batteries is improving. More than a third of respondents knew what lithium batteries were and recognized the existence of rules governing their use. However, the same survey revealed that many people were unsure about the specifics. Older passengers, particularly those over 55, demonstrated a better understanding of the regulations, indicating that targeted education could bridge the gap in awareness.

Expert Advice: Quality Matters and Daily Precautions

Nicholson urged passengers to treat power banks with the same care as other electronic devices, noting that many neglect their safety. “I look after my mobile phone probably better than I do my power bank,” he remarked, highlighting how users often overlook the risks. He pointed to the common practice of placing power banks in bags without concern for their condition, which can lead to physical damage and increased vulnerability to malfunction. “These things, when they catch fire, they go—really go—big fires,” he warned, reinforcing the severity of the issue.

He also advised travelers to invest in high-quality power banks, as cheaper alternatives often use substandard replacement batteries that are more likely to fail. “There are a lot of not so good products around,” Nicholson said, stressing that selecting a reliable charger can reduce the chances of an incident. This advice extends beyond the skies, as thermal runaway can occur in everyday situations, such as when devices are overcharged or exposed to extreme temperatures.

The CAA’s guidance aligns with international safety protocols, which generally recommend keeping power banks in carry-on luggage rather than in overhead compartments or checked baggage. However, airline rules vary slightly in implementation. Some carriers may impose stricter limits on the number of power banks allowed in the cabin, while others focus on ensuring they are stored in bags to prevent direct contact with flammable materials. Nicholson said the consistency of these rules is crucial, as differences could lead to confusion among passengers.

While the CAA and airlines are taking steps to address the issue, Nicholson acknowledged that the challenge lies in fostering a culture of responsibility. “People need to understand that these are not just small devices—they can be dangerous if mishandled,” he said. The recent incidents, combined with the increasing reliance on portable electronics, highlight the urgency of the situation. As more travelers depend on power banks for their daily needs, the need for education and adherence to safety guidelines becomes even more pressing.

Looking ahead, the CAA aims to work closely with airlines to ensure that passengers are well-informed about the risks and best practices. The summer campaign will likely include informational materials, training sessions for staff, and public awareness initiatives to reduce the likelihood of future incidents. With the data showing a clear upward trend in thermal runaway events, the message is clear: power banks, while convenient, require careful handling to avoid serious consequences.

Nicholson concluded by urging travelers to take the rules seriously. “It’s not just about following regulations—it’s about protecting yourself and others,” he said. As the demand for portable chargers continues to grow, so too does the responsibility to ensure their safe use, both in the air and on the ground. The CAA’s efforts to raise awareness are a critical step in mitigating the risks associated with these devices and safeguarding the safety of all passengers.