Can You Bring a Power Bank on a Plane? Rules Explained (2026)
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Many international trips route through big hubs like Dubai, Doha, Singapore or Frankfurt, and each airline has started writing its own power bank rules. Here's what the regulators say, and how some major airlines go further.
The baseline rules (FAA, IATA and ICAO)
| Battery size | What the rules say | Where it goes |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 100Wh | Allowed for personal use | Carry-on only |
| 101–160Wh | Airline approval needed; max two larger spares | Carry-on only |
| Over 160Wh | Forbidden on passenger aircraft | Not allowed |
| Number of power banks | Max two per person (ICAO addendum, effective 27 March 2026) | Carry-on only |
Sources: the FAA's PackSafe lithium battery page, IATA's battery guidance, and ICAO's Addendum No. 1 information note.
Two details matter for 2026:
- ICAO's addendum prohibits recharging power banks on board and recommends against using them to charge your devices during the flight.
- IATA's guidance to airlines says the option to approve 100–160Wh power banks won't carry into the 68th edition of its Dangerous Goods Regulations, which takes effect on 1 January 2027. For anything over 100Wh, expect a "no" more often.
How to work out watt-hours
Wh = mAh × V ÷ 1000. Most power banks use 3.6V or 3.7V cells. For example:
- 10,000mAh × 3.6V ÷ 1000 = 36Wh
- 20,000mAh × 3.6V ÷ 1000 = 72Wh
You don't need to do the maths if the label already shows Wh. Newer batteries usually print it, according to the FAA. Emirates goes further and requires capacity information on every power bank it accepts.
Airline rules that go further
| Airline | Rule (from the airline's own page) |
|---|---|
| Emirates | Carry one power bank under 100Wh. Using it on board is banned, and so is charging it from aircraft power. Keep it in the seat pocket or under the seat, not in the overhead bin. (Emirates) |
| Singapore Airlines | Up to two power banks. Using and charging them on board are both prohibited. No overhead bins. Banks over 100Wh up to 160Wh need approval. (Singapore Airlines) |
| Southwest | One power bank, 100Wh max. No overhead bin. Not charged from in-seat power. Must be visible when in use. (Southwest) |
Rules change quickly, so treat this table as a snapshot and check your own airline the week you fly.
Before-you-fly checklist
- The capacity (Wh, or mAh and voltage) is printed and readable.
- The bank is undamaged: no swelling, cracks or overheating. The FAA says damaged or recalled batteries must not be carried.
- It's packed in your carry-on, with the terminals protected from short circuit. Retail packaging, tape or a pouch all work.
- If your cabin bag gets checked at the gate, take the power bank out and keep it with you.
- Charge your phone before you board, in case your airline bans using power banks.
FAQ
Can I put a power bank in checked luggage?
No. The FAA and IATA both say spare lithium batteries and power banks go in carry-on only.
How many power banks can I bring?
Under the ICAO addendum in force since 27 March 2026, a maximum of two. Some airlines, such as Emirates and Southwest, allow only one.
Is a 20,000mAh power bank allowed?
At a typical 3.6V, 20,000mAh is about 72Wh, which is under 100Wh. Check the label for the exact rating, and check your airline's limit on how many you can bring.
Can I charge my phone from my power bank during the flight?
It depends on the airline. Emirates and Singapore Airlines ban it, and ICAO now recommends against it. Where it's allowed, follow the crew's instructions.
Can I charge my power bank from the seat USB port?
ICAO's 2026 addendum prohibits recharging power banks on board, and several airlines say so explicitly.
What about a 27,000mAh "airline-friendly" bank?
Banks sold as just under 100Wh are generally fine under the size limit. You still have to follow the quantity and in-flight-use rules.
Conclusion
Stay at or under 100Wh, keep it in your carry-on, bring no more than two (or one on stricter airlines), and don't plan on using it mid-flight. Need one that fits the rules? See our guide to the best power banks for flying.
Browse airline-friendly Anker power banks · Browse UGREEN power banks
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