Gulf carriers align on stricter power bank rules in the cabin
Power banks must stay visible in the cabin, cannot be used to charge devices in flight, and are banned from checked bags across most regional airlines.
- In effect from
- 15 Aug 2026
- Published
- 6 Sept 2026
Batteries up to 100Wh are allowed without approval; 100–160Wh needs airline permission; above 160Wh is not accepted.
Crews are asking passengers to keep power banks in the seat pocket or a bag under the seat rather than in the overhead bin, so any overheating is noticed quickly.
Charging from a power bank during the flight is no longer permitted on several carriers, and using the seat USB port is the expected alternative.
Countries affected
Related updates
Japan pushes all arrivals through pre-filled online immigration and customs forms
Complete the online arrival service before landing and you clear immigration and customs with two QR codes instead of paper slips.
Singapore expands passport-free clearance to all Changi terminals
Departing travellers are cleared by face and iris scan without presenting a passport. The SG Arrival Card is still required for arrivals.
