Air travellers around the world are facing new restrictions on the carriage and use of power banks on aircraft following updated safety requirements approved by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
The new measures took effect on March 27, 2026, as part of efforts to reduce the risk of fires and other incidents linked to lithium batteries carried by passengers.
Under the updated ICAO provisions, passengers are limited to a maximum of two power banks for personal use when travelling by air.
Travellers are also prohibited from recharging their power banks during a flight. ICAO has additionally recommended that passengers avoid using power banks to recharge portable electronic devices while onboard an aircraft.
The changes are aimed at addressing growing safety concerns surrounding lithium-ion batteries, which can overheat and enter a thermal runaway state if they are damaged, short-circuited or otherwise compromised.
Power banks are treated differently from batteries built into phones, laptops and other electronic devices because they are essentially spare lithium batteries designed to supply power to other equipment.
ICAO said the new restrictions were developed in response to a growing number of cabin fire incidents involving lithium batteries and power banks.
The organisation said the measures are intended to reduce both the likelihood and potential impact of battery-related thermal events during flights.
The updated rules also seek to create a more consistent approach to power-bank safety across international aviation.
Passengers should carry power banks in their hand baggage, rather than checked luggage. IATA guidance also advises travellers to protect power-bank terminals against short circuits and to check with their airline because individual carriers and national authorities may apply additional requirements.
Power banks with capacities above 100 Wh may require airline approval, while units above 160 Wh are generally subject to stricter restrictions. The exact requirements can depend on the battery rating and applicable airline rules.
Travellers should therefore check the watt-hour rating printed on their power bank before heading to the airport.
For Nigerians travelling internationally, the new ICAO standards are particularly relevant when flying through major airports and connecting between different countries.
However, passengers should not assume that every airline will have identical procedures. Airlines can introduce stricter rules, and travellers should check their carrier's latest baggage and lithium-battery policy before departure.
The updated measures are part of a broader aviation effort to reduce battery-related risks while allowing passengers to continue travelling with essential electronic devices.
With smartphones, laptops and power banks now common travel companions, aviation authorities say responsible handling remains important for passenger and crew safety.