Starting April 2026, passengers on flights to, from, and within Japan will no longer be allowed to use power banks to charge devices during the flight. This means no charging your phone, tablet, or laptop with a power bank while the plane is in the air.
However, before you panic, there’s an important distinction:
❗ You Can Still Bring Power Banks
Japan’s rule does not ban carrying power banks. You can still bring them on board in your carry-on luggage, as long as they meet standard safety limits (usually 160 watt-hours or less) and are clearly labelled.
What you cannot do is use them during the flight even if your device is running low.
❌ Checked Luggage Is a No-Go
Power banks must always stay in your hand luggage. Checked baggage is strictly prohibited for all portable batteries due to fire risk.
Airlines typically allow one or two units per passenger, depending on battery capacity.
Why Airlines Are Cracking Down
The safety concern centers around lithium-ion batteries, the type used in most power banks.
These batteries can overheat, spark, and in rare cases catch fire, especially if damaged or charging. On an aircraft, this poses a serious hazard.
Japan’s regulators are tightening the rules to reduce the risk of battery-related incidents in the cabin.
South Korea Is Taking Similar Steps
Japan isn’t alone.
In South Korea, multiple airlines, including Asiana Airlines, Jin Air, Air Busan and Air Seoul, have already banned in-flight use of power banks to charge devices. As of 23 February 2026, T’way Air became the last of the country’s major carriers to adopt the same restriction.
How to Survive a Power Bank-Free Flight
- Charge everything before boarding — phone, tablet, e-reader, headphones.
- Check your airline’s power bank policies — limits and rules can vary.
- Keep power banks in your hand-carry and ensure labels are visible.
- Don’t use power banks in the air — wait until after landing.
Sources: Japan Today, Nikkei Asia, The Traveler