Hong Kong bans charging electronic devices using power banks during flights

Hong Kong’s aviation regulator has tightened the requirements for power bank usage on board aircraft, prohibiting passengers from using them to charge any portable electronic devices or recharging such batteries during flights from April 7.

In addition, power banks will be banned from being stowed in overhead compartments.

But travellers are still allowed to travel with lithium batteries, which can be stored in bags under the seat or in seat-back pouches, according to aviation insiders.

The Civil Aviation Department expressed strong concerns on Monday about recent safety incidents involving passengers using lithium power banks on board aircraft.

It said it issued a new notice on Monday to tighten requirements and regulations following a meeting with local airline representatives.

The use of power banks has come under the spotlight over safety hazard issues recently.