Eva Air to ban portable chargers on all flights

Taiwanese airline EVA Air has announced that it will prohibit the use of portable chargers on all flights starting March 1, citing concerns over in-flight safety.

New Regulations for Portable Chargers
Currently, passengers are allowed to carry power banks and lithium batteries in their carry-on luggage, but they are strictly prohibited in checked baggage. However, under the new policy, passengers will no longer be able to use portable chargers during the flight.

To minimize inconvenience, EVA Air advises passengers to fully charge their electronic devices before boarding and to use the built-in charging outlets available at their seats if necessary, according to Taipei Times.

Following Global Aviation Safety Measures
The move follows similar aviation safety measures worldwide, particularly in South Korea, where authorities banned power banks on flights operated by domestic carriers starting February 13.

The decision came after a fire incident on an Air Busan flight in January, though the exact cause of the blaze remains unclear. As an additional precaution, on February 4, Air Busan also banned passengers from placing power banks and e-cigarettes in overhead bins, according to Korea Herald.

Other Airlines with Similar Policies
Taiwan’s Starlux Airlines has already enforced a ban on portable charger usage since its launch in 2018, instead encouraging passengers to rely on seat-side charging ports.

With aviation authorities tightening safety regulations, more airlines may follow suit in restricting power bank usage in-flight to reduce fire hazards.