Flight Passengers Warned Not To Pack Power Banks Or Vapes In Checked Luggage Ahead Of Busy UK Summer Travel Season

Flight passengers warned not to pack power banks or vapes in checked luggage ahead of busy UK summer travel season

Flight passengers travelling from the UK are being urged not to pack power banks or vaping devices in their checked hold luggage as the busy summer holiday travel period begins, amid growing safety concerns over lithium battery fires. Aviation safety authorities say the warning is part of renewed efforts to reduce in-flight fire risks caused by lithium-ion batteries, which are commonly found in portable chargers, mobile devices and e-cigarettes.

According to aviation regulators, power banks and vapes contain lithium batteries that can overheat, catch fire, or enter a dangerous condition known as “thermal runaway” if damaged or improperly stored. The UK Civil Aviation Authority CAA has repeatedly warned that such devices must not be placed in aircraft cargo holds because fires in the hold are harder to detect and control.

Officials say incidents involving portable chargers are increasing as more travellers carry multiple electronic devices.

Passengers are being reminded of key rules ahead of peak holiday travel

• Power banks and spare lithium batteries must be carried in hand luggage only
• They must not be placed in checked hold baggage
• Vapes/e-cigarettes must also be kept in cabin baggage
• Devices should not be used or charged during flight depending on airline rules
• Damaged or swollen batteries should not be taken on flights

Some airlines also limit the number and capacity of power banks passengers can bring on board. Aviation authorities say power banks are among the most common lithium battery devices carried by passengers, with many travellers unaware of the risks. Reports have shown increasing onboard incidents linked to overheating batteries, including cases where flights were delayed or diverted as a precaution. The CAA has stressed that the rules are not arbitrary, but designed to prevent potentially serious onboard fires that could threaten passenger safety. Officials are urging travellers to double-check their luggage before heading to the airport this summer and to follow airline instructions carefully. They also recommend buying certified electronic devices from reputable manufacturers and avoiding damaged or counterfeit batteries. As UK airports prepare for one of the busiest travel periods of the year, aviation authorities are reinforcing a simple message: keep power banks and vapes out of checked luggage and carry them in the cabin where they can be safely monitored.