EVA Air bans use of portable chargers onboard starting March
EVA Air, one of the two largest airlines in Taiwan, has joined the list of airlines that prohibit using portable chargers on all flights.
In a press release, the airline said that using and charging power banks and spare lithium batteries will be prohibited throughout the flight, indicating that travelers' personal electronic devices must be charged before boarding.
They added that power banks and spare lithium batteries are prohibited in checked baggage and must be appropriately stored and carried in the carry-on baggage.
The airline also informed its passengers that its aircraft seats have AC power outlets and USB (Type A) ports.
The update came after a Jan. 28 fire incident at Air Busan, an airline based in Busanjin-gu, Busan, South Korea.
Reports said all 176 passengers were safely evacuated using an escape slide. Seven passengers, on the other hand, suffered minor injuries.
It also said a "portable power bank or electronic device in an overhead bin" caused the fire.
China Airlines also implemented the same policy, prohibiting its passengers from using portable chargers while on board flights and advising them to carry their portable chargers for safety reasons.
Other airlines within the region that follow the same regulations are China Airlines' regional airline company, Mandarin Airlines, and Taiwan's Starlux Airlines.
In the Philippines, passengers can bring and use their power banks inside the aircraft on some airlines. However, it is noted that "old and worn-out" power banks are not allowed, adding that batteries "must be protected from damage and short circuit."
For Philippine Airlines, lithium metal or non-rechargeable batteries are limited to 2 grams of lithium per battery. On the other hand, lithium-ion or rechargeable batteries are limited to a rating of 100-watt hours (Wh) per battery.
"With airline approval, passengers may also carry up to two spare larger lithium-ion batteries (101-160 watt-hours). No more than two spare batteries may be carried in carry-on baggage," the airline said.
For Cebu Pacific, battery-powered devices are allowed for both hand-carry and checked baggage as long as they are within the limits indicated on the official website.
At the same time, AirAsia allows electronic devices such as cameras, cellular phones, laptops, and camcorders containing lithium or lithium-ion cells for personal use in the aircraft. However, spare batteries such as power banks must be in carry-on baggage only and are not permitted as checked baggage.
