Australian airlines will ban power banks from December

Starting next month, major Australian airlines will prohibit the use of portable power banks after several international incidents, including a mid-air fire on a Virgin Australia flight in July. From the 1st of December, Virgin Australia passengers must keep power banks in view and easily accessible for the entire flight.

The devices cannot be used or charged on board, and passengers will be limited to two power banks, with larger units over 100 watt-hours requiring airline approval.

Starting on the 15th of December, Qantas, QantasLink, and Jetstar will roll out similar measures. A Qantas spokeswoman said passengers can bring only two power banks in their cabin baggage, each with a capacity of less than 160 watt-hours.

The moves come amid growing concerns about the safety risks posed by lithium battery-powered devices.

Virgin Australia's chief operations officer Chris Snook said the changes aligned with international airline safety standards.

"Globally, more lithium battery-powered devices are now being carried by travellers, and while these items are generally safe when packed and handled appropriately, this move will minimise any potential risks associated with these devices," Mr. Snook said.

Virgin, Jetstar and Qantas said passengers would still be permitted to charge their devices on in-seat charging ports.