The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has announced new safety regulations governing how power banks and battery-powered devices are transported on airplanes. These adjustments form part of the association’s 2026 edition of operational manuals for cargo and ground handling, which include around 100 major amendments designed to enhance global aviation safety.
At the center of these updates are revised guidelines on lithium-ion batteries, which have become increasingly common in modern electronics such as smartphones, laptops, tablets, and wearable devices. The new measures are contained within the Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR), a key framework that governs the safe transport of hazardous materials in aviation.
The decision by the International Air Transport Association to tighten regulations follows growing concerns about the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries. While incidents remain rare, damaged or improperly handled batteries can overheat, catch fire, or even explode during flight.
IATA reported that the volume of lithium-ion batteries transported by air as cargo has surged by 25% year over year, reflecting the rapid growth of the electronics industry and the global e-commerce boom. With millions of these batteries now being shipped and carried by passengers daily, the association deemed it critical to strengthen existing safety protocols.
Why the International Air Transport Association Updated Its Rules
“These updates are about prevention and control,” an IATA spokesperson said. “We are addressing the increasing demand for lithium-ion battery transport while ensuring that passenger and crew safety remains the top priority.”
Under the new International Air Transport rules, spare batteries and power banks are now strictly prohibited in checked luggage. The move aims to prevent fires in the aircraft’s cargo hold, which are difficult to detect and extinguish once the aircraft is airborne.
Passengers must instead carry these devices in their hand luggage, following specific handling instructions:
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Power banks and spare batteries must not be stored in overhead lockers. They must be kept under the seat in front of the passenger or another designated safe location, such as a seatback pocket.
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Charging of batteries or power banks during the flight is now completely prohibited — including when using in-seat or in-flight power outlets.
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Passengers may also not charge or use these devices to power other electronics during taxi, takeoff, or landing.
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Lithium-ion cells with a capacity of 20 watt-hours (Wh) or higher, and batteries exceeding 100Wh packed with equipment, must be maintained at no more than 30% state-of-charge before transportation.
The new rules take effect in early 2026, giving airlines and passengers time to adapt to the updated safety requirements.
The International Air Transport Association’s decision is backed by a growing body of research showing that lithium-ion batteries, though generally safe, can become hazardous if damaged or short-circuited. These batteries contain flammable electrolytes that can ignite under high temperatures, and once a fire starts, it can self-propagate — spreading rapidly from one cell to another.
Aviation safety analyst Guy Leitch from SA Flyer explained the reasoning behind the changes. “Baggage gets thrown around, and if a power bank or battery cell gets damaged, it can spontaneously combust,” he said. “The problem with lithium-ion fires is that they’re extremely difficult to put out — especially if they’re in the cargo hold.”
This risk has been highlighted by a few isolated but serious incidents in recent years, prompting airlines and regulators to treat lithium-ion batteries as a high-priority safety concern.
The International Air Transport Association expects the updated regulations to have far-reaching implications across the aviation industry. Airlines, cargo handlers, and airport authorities will need to update their safety manuals, train staff on handling hazardous goods, and revise passenger communication materials to ensure compliance.
For passengers, the key takeaway is clear: power banks and spare batteries must always travel in carry-on luggage, and strict precautions must be observed throughout the journey. Airlines are expected to begin educating passengers through check-in counters, booking confirmations, and inflight announcements.
“These updates aren’t just bureaucratic changes,” Leitch added. “They’re practical safety measures that could prevent a catastrophic fire in flight. The aviation industry can’t afford to take chances.”
While some passengers may find the new restrictions inconvenient, experts say they reflect the International Air Transport Association’s ongoing commitment to balancing technological progress with safety. As personal electronics become more powerful and battery-dependent, the aviation industry must continually adapt to new risks.
The DGR updates reaffirm IATA’s role as the global authority on air transport safety standards. By setting consistent rules worldwide, the association ensures that airlines, manufacturers, and passengers operate under a unified safety framework.
In the coming months, airlines are expected to roll out awareness campaigns to educate travelers about the new International Air Transport safety requirements — ensuring that every flight remains secure, efficient, and compliant.
Source- EWN
