The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) on Wednesday said it is working closely with airlines to increase awareness on the carrying of hazardous materials like power banks onboard the aircraft.
The initiative includes airlines disseminating information, guiding and educating the passengers on proper handling of dangerous items.
The move seeks to address concerns on recent aviation incidents where power banks were suspected to have caused fire onboard the aircraft.
CAAP’s Flight Operations Department head, Captain James Conner, said that while such incidents were isolated cases, they serve as a reminder of the importance of adhering to aviation safety regulations.
Passengers need to strictly follow airline-imposed safety protocols to prevent similar incidents, Conner said.
Under CAAP regulations, power banks, classified as portable lithium-ion battery devices, are strictly prohibited in checked baggage due to the risk of overheating and potential fire hazards.
Passengers may carry them in their hand-carry luggage, subject to the following restrictions:
- Power banks up to 100Wh (watt-hours) may be brought onboard without prior approval.
- Power banks between 100Wh and 160Wh require airline approval before being carried onboard.
- Power banks exceeding 160Wh are strictly prohibited on flights.
Travelers are advised to check the capacity of their power banks and comply with airline policies to avoid inconvenience.
Taiwan’s Eva Air, for instance, banned the inflight use and charging of power banks and spare lithium batteries since March 1.
Korean-owned airlines, on the other hand, banned power banks and e-cigarettes on overhead bins. (PNA)