Warning over power bank fire risk on flights as summer holidays begin

Warning over power bank fire risk – As summer travel season kicks off, air travelers are being advised to keep power banks and vapes in their carry-on bags rather than placing them in the hold. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has highlighted that lithium batteries—commonly found in power banks, vapes, laptops, and other electronic devices—are now the leading cause of aircraft safety risks. This warning comes after a significant rise in incidents involving these batteries, with the number of devices discovered in hold luggage nearly doubling in a year.

The CAA reports that the average passenger now carries four lithium-powered devices on a flight, up from previous years. This increase is linked to the growing reliance on portable electronics, particularly during the school summer break. While most passengers are aware of the rules, the regulator emphasizes that the risk of fire remains a critical concern, especially when devices are stored in the cargo hold. “Prevention is the best outcome,” says Tim Alderslade, CEO of Airlines UK, noting that the rising use of electronics has made lithium battery incidents a “growing challenge.”

Fire Hazards and Energy Storage

Lithium batteries are prized for their ability to store large amounts of energy in small, lightweight packages. This makes them ideal for powering devices like smartphones, smartwatches, and vapes. However, their efficiency also means they can ignite rapidly under certain conditions. If a battery overheats or malfunctions, the fire can spread quickly and is often difficult to extinguish, especially in the confined space of the hold.

The CAA has observed a marked increase in such incidents. In 2024, 316 cases of lithium battery-related fires were reported to UK authorities, a number that nearly doubled to 643 in 2025. Similarly, reports of devices overheating or failing have risen from 123 to 206 in the same period. While most of these events occur in the cabin where crew can respond immediately, the danger escalates if the issue happens in the hold, where delays in detection could lead to catastrophic consequences.

Recent Incidents Highlight the Risk

A notable example occurred in October 2025, when flames erupted from the overhead compartment of an Air China flight. The incident, captured on video and widely shared online, was attributed to a lithium battery. Another case last month involved an EasyJet flight that had to divert to Rome after a power bank was found in the hold. These events underscore the real-world implications of improper storage.

The CAA estimates that approximately two lithium battery incidents occur weekly on UK flights. This frequency has prompted stricter guidelines for passengers. Among the key rules: power banks must be carried in the cabin, with a maximum of two per person, and they cannot be charged while onboard. Laptops, when placed in check-in bags, should be powered off to minimize risk. These measures aim to reduce the likelihood of fires spreading unchecked during flights.

Expert Concerns and Safety Advice

“Lithium batteries carry enormous energy, which is convenient for recharging devices, but when things go wrong, they can produce ferocious fires that are hard to control,” explains Giuseppe Capanna, a product safety engineer at the Electrical Safety First charity. He warns that “substandard versions” of these batteries, often purchased from third-party sellers, are typically responsible for the most serious issues. “It is crucial that we only bring safe, tested products on holiday,” Capanna adds, stressing the importance of consumer awareness.

Capanna highlights that the compact design of lithium batteries makes them especially dangerous when packed in luggage. “Once these items are in your baggage, there’s no access to them. If a fire starts, it can escalate rapidly, leading to devastating outcomes,” he says. His remarks align with the CAA’s findings, which show that most incidents occur in the cabin but the potential for disaster is heightened if the problem manifests in the hold.

The regulator also points out that removing hold luggage during an emergency can cause significant delays, potentially forcing planes to divert. This not only affects passenger experience but also increases the risk of further complications. For instance, the EasyJet diversion last month required emergency procedures to ensure the safety of all onboard.

Broader Implications and Calls for Awareness

The rise in lithium battery incidents has sparked a broader conversation about safety protocols for travelers. Airlines UK and the CAA are urging passengers to familiarize themselves with the rules, emphasizing that proper packing can prevent many of these issues. “Passengers play a vital role in ensuring safety, as the risk of fire is often preventable with simple awareness,” Alderslade states.

Meanwhile, experts like Capanna are pushing for stricter quality controls on lithium battery production. He notes that while most devices are safe, the prevalence of cheap, poorly manufactured alternatives has contributed to the surge in incidents. “Consumers should prioritize purchasing from trusted brands to reduce the risk of fire,” he advises.

As travel demand grows, so does the need for vigilance. With the number of electronic devices in use increasing, the CAA and industry leaders are working to educate passengers on the importance of adhering to safety guidelines. This includes not only avoiding hold luggage for power banks and vapes but also ensuring all lithium batteries are in good condition before boarding. By taking these precautions, travelers can help mitigate the risks associated with these powerful yet potentially dangerous batteries.

The situation is being monitored closely by aviation authorities, with ongoing efforts to update safety measures and respond to emerging threats. As the summer holidays begin, the focus remains on preventing incidents that could jeopardize the safety of both passengers and crew. With proper awareness and adherence to rules, the risk of lithium battery fires can be significantly reduced, ensuring a smoother and safer travel experience for all.