The Travelling Para

from 15 Dec 2025 — Qantas, Jetstar & Virgin Australia

Australia’s major carriers have introduced strict new rules because of fire safety concerns with lithium battery power banks:

• You can carry power banks in carry-on only, not in checked baggage. Qantas Newsroom
• Using or charging power banks during the flight is now prohibited, including via USB or seat power outlets. Qantas Newsroom
• You may carry up to two power banks per passenger. Qantas Newsroom
• Each power bank must be less than 160 Wh (more on this below). Qantas Newsroom
• Power banks and spare batteries should be kept within reach (e.g., under the seat, in the seat pocket). Qantas Newsroom
• Power banks must display clear battery specs and be in good condition

These rules follow broader safety reviews and are expected to influence other carriers worldwide.

Why These Rules? Fire Safety

Lithium-ion power banks are classified as dangerous goods because of the risk of thermal runaway and in-flight fires. There have been several incidents (e.g., battery-related fires), prompting regulators and airlines to tighten rules globally. Civil Aviation Safety Authority

Plane catches fire on runway at South Korean airport

29 January 2025; An Air Busan aeroplane at Gimhae International Airport bound for Hong Kong when its rear burst into flames as a result of a Lithium battery catching fire. All 176 people on board were evacuated.

Global Airline Rules (Common International Practice)

Even where bans on use aren’t in effect yet, most airlines align with international safety guidelines (often via IATA/ICAO/CASA):

Carry-On vs Checked Baggage

• Power banks must go in carry-on baggage only. Never pack them in checked bags. Qantas

Battery Capacity Limits

Airlines express battery size in watt-hours (Wh); mAh alone isn’t sufficient. You can calculate Wh from mAh and voltage if needed.

Typical limits:

• ≤100 Wh: Permitted in carry-on without airline approval. Civil Aviation Safety Authority
• >100 Wh and ≤160 Wh: May be permitted but require airline approval and usually are limited to 2 items per passenger. Civil Aviation Safety Authority
• >160 Wh: Not allowed anywhere on passenger flights (unless part of special cargo rules or a mobility aid). Civil Aviation Safety Authority

Use & Charging

Even where allowed onboard:

• You typically cannot charge power banks on the aircraft. Jetstar
• Some airlines also forbid using them in flight (as Australia now enforces), while others allow usage but still ban charging. Jetstar