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Why Has Japan Banned Power Banks On Flights From April Onwards?

Power banks Japan flights

This is an important update! Japan is set to ban the use of power banks in checked baggage on flights from April. The decision is being taken considering the safety of passengers and crew onboard. The ban will not be limited to power banks but will also extend to how many power banks you can carry in your carry-on luggage. Here’s everything you need to know.

Japan Bans Power Banks On Flights

According to a report by Nikkei Asia, Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism is all set to ban power banks or mobile batteries inside checked baggage on flights. This decision has been taken after a series of incidents were reported in which mobile batteries caught fire on flights. The new rules, which are expected to come into effect by April, ban power banks in checked baggage.

Passengers will be allowed to carry up to two power banks between 100 watt-hours and 160 watt-hours. Power banks under 100 watt-hours will have no limits. High-capacity batteries exceeding 160 watt-hours will remain completely banned. Reportedly, there were 123 accidents related to power banks or mobile batteries in 2024. Devices caught fire while they were being used to charge smartphones. This is why authorities have now made this decision.

Also Read: India: You Can No Longer Charge Power Banks In-Flight As Per DGCA Circular

Restrictions To Apply On Flights To & From Japan

According to a report by Nikkei Asia, these restrictions will apply to all aircraft departing or arriving in Japan. Authorities have also briefed airlines on the changes and have advised them to enforce passenger compliance.

Power banks run on lithium-ion cells. These cells are quite sensitive to impact damage and heat, which can cause them to ignite or emit smoke. Reportedly, in early January 2025, an Air Busan flight caught fire at Gimhae International Airport due to a power bank. Not just that, fires have also occurred on trains as well.

Also Read: Bengaluru’s Only Japanese Bakery Serves Melon Pan & Cream Puffs Straight Out Of Your Fave Anime

What do you think of this decision by Japan? Do you think we should carry power banks on flights?

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ Truecreatives and FabrikaCr  (Representative Image)

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Ashmeet Guliani: A coffee lover at heart, Ashmeet is a writer who enjoys exploring new cafes and discovering hidden gems. When not working, she is found reading, playing with dogs, or dreaming up a new coffee recipe to try.