Source: Daily Mail (Story by Alesia Fiddler)
Lufthansa has become the first European airline to ban the use of power banks on flights.
The German carrier previously allowed passengers to use the useful tech on board, but after a spate of incidents the policy has now changed.
Power banks have caused issues on several flights and one set fire on an Air China A312 Airbus last year after it overheated. Crew members managed to put the flames out and there were no reported injuries, but it isn’t the only time a portable charger has set alight.
Another set fire on a KLM plane in August travelling from São Paulo to Amsterdam. Again, crew members put out the flames but the repeated issues have caused airlines to adjust their policies.
Lufthansa has now changed its policy on power bank usage during flights. Passengers will be able to bring the tech in their cabin luggage, but they won’t be able to charge their devices with them on board anymore.
They are still banned from being carried in checked luggage, too.
In the cabin, power banks must be stored in hand luggage under the seat, or on the person. They are no longer permitted to be stowed in the overhead compartments.
‘Personal electronic devices and batteries are classed as dangerous goods. This is because, if damaged, they can generate heat, short-circuit and start a fire,’ the airline states on its website. Transport approval is required for power banks above 100 Wh and only two are allowed per person.
‘Charging and using power banks is prohibited. An exception is made for use with approved medical devices,’ the regulation reads. It continues, ‘Power banks must not be stowed in the overhead locker above the seats.
‘For safety reasons, please store your power banks under the seat in front of you or in its seat pocket, on your person or in your hand luggage.’
Lufthansa adds, ‘Protect your power bank against damage and short circuiting, by using the original packaging, for example.’
Travellers who wish to bring a power bank larger than the restrictions must notify the carrier beforehand and get approval.
The new rules impact all Lufthansa flights, EuroNews reports, including routes operated by affiliated or Lufthansa-owned planes.
The move could see even more airlines restrict the use of power banks as aviation safety organisations across the world look into safety measures.
UAE carrier Emirates became the first airline to ban power banks completely last year, and a number of airlines have put strict rules in place that prohibit passengers from bringing power banks in checked luggage going into the hold.