Qantas, Virgin to ban use of power banks on planes after spate of fires
Passengers on Australia’s major airlines will face new rules on the use of power banks as Virgin, Qantas and Jetstar update their guidelines from next month.
The move comes as safety concerns about the use of the devices prompted airlines and regulators to take action.
From December 1, Virgin Australia passengers will no longer be able to use power banks – small, self-contained battery packs used to charge phones and other devices – on flights. From 15 December, Qantas, along with Virgin, announced that the same restrictions would also affect Qantas, QantasLink and Jetstar aircraft.
Passengers on Australia’s major airlines will face new rules on the use of power banks as Virgin, Qantas and Jetstar update their guidelines.Credit: Getty Images
While passengers can still carry “power banks, spare batteries, and small portable electronic devices,” these must be “easily accessible throughout the flight.”
Virgin and Qantas airlines will also limit the number of power banks passengers can carry to two.
“Globally, more lithium battery-powered devices are now being carried by travelers, and while these items are generally safe when properly packaged and used, this move will minimize any potential risks associated with these devices,” Virgin Australia chief operating officer Chris Snook said. The changes for Virgin will take effect from December 1.
A fire broke out on a Virgin plane.Credit: Credit: Pulse Tasmania.
Awareness of the risks of power banks on flights has increased as the number of cases of devices overheating and starting fires has increased and been documented.
Virgin says 88 percent of its Boeing 737 fleet has in-seat charging ports, with the remainder to be equipped by June 2026. Virgin Australia’s new Embraer 190-E2 aircraft all feature in-seat chargers.
