When traveling abroad, carrying electronic devices on flights requires extra attention. Every airline and country enforces strict regulations regarding electronics for safety reasons.
Failure to follow these regulations could result in unwanted incidents during travel. One notable example is the Air Busan plane fire incident that occurred in late January, allegedly caused by a power bank in the aircraft cabin.
Air Busan Plane Fire Caused by Power Bank
On January 28, 2025, a fire broke out on an Air Busan aircraft at Gimhae International Airport, Busan, South Korea. The fire was reportedly caused by a passengerās power bank stored in the cabin overhead compartment. Seven people were injured, and the aircraft sustained significant damage.
Following the incident, Air Busan introduced a new policy prohibiting passengers from storing power banks in overhead bins. Instead, power banks must be kept on the passengerās person during the flight. This policy is being gradually implemented across all flights.
This incident highlights the importance of proper handling of electronic devices powered by lithium batteries during air travel. Damaged or defective lithium batteries pose a risk of combustion if not managed correctly.
Passengers are therefore advised to carry such devices in their hand luggage and to ensure they are in good condition before the flight.
Electronics Allowed and Not Allowed on Planes
In general, most types of electronics are allowed on planes. Common examples include:
- Mobile phones
- Laptops
- Tablets (e.g., iPad)
- E-readers (e.g., Kindle or Kobo)
- MP3 players
- Travel irons
- Hair dryers
- Hair straighteners/curlers
- E-cigarettes (not allowed in checked baggage)
- Electric razors
- Cameras (subject to specific equipment regulations)
- Mobile phone chargers
One key factor to consider when carrying electronics is the battery. Passengers are allowed to bring batteries for electronic devices on board, but they must be placed in cabin baggage. Loose lithium batteries are strictly prohibited in checked luggage.
Rechargeable lithium batteries found in phones, laptops, and e-readers, as well as spare batteries, are generally not allowed in checked baggage. Regulations typically depend on watt-hour (Wh) limits. For example, in Indonesia, passengers are allowed to carry power banks up to 160 Wh.
Lithium batteries, whether rechargeable or not, are highly flammable. If they ignite in cargo, the fire is harder to detect and poses a greater threat. However, if the fire occurs in the cabin, it can be quickly handled by crew members.
In Indonesia, passengers are permitted to bring laptops and other electronic devices into the cabin. These items must be removed from bags and scanned separately at X-ray checkpoints before departure. This rule applies to all flights, domestic and international, without exception.
Note that some airlines or countries may have different policies, so itās important to check the airlineās official website or contact customer service before flying.
Tips for Carrying Electronics Safely on Flights
To ensure a safe and smooth flight, follow these tips when traveling with electronic devices:
- Keep larger electronics like laptops and tablets accessible for security checks.
- Ensure battery-powered devices are fully charged and can be turned on if requested during security checks.
- Bring all necessary chargers for your devices.
- Carry power banks and lithium battery devices in cabin baggage. Turn them on only when needed, and avoid using them during take-off, landing, or taxiing.
- Some airlines may allow mobile phone use during take-off and landing in airplane mode, but always listen to cabin crew instructions, as policies may vary.
By staying informed and prepared, you can help ensure your journey isĀ safe, smooth, and compliant with international flight regulations.
