Recent incidents involving power banks catching fire inside aircraft cabins have prompted stricter airline safety regulations.
After issuing a notice last month urging airlines to strictly enforce rules regarding carry-on items, the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department met with representatives from Hong Kong-based airlines on March 21. On March 24, the regulator announced updated requirements regarding the carriage and use of power banks on flights, aiming to further enhance in-flight safety.
According to Hong Kong media reports, starting April 7, passengers will be strictly prohibited from using or charging power banks during flights. Additionally, power banks must be carried on the passenger and not be placed on the overhead compartments.
Previously, on March 20, a fire broke out aboard an A320 aircraft, prompting an emergency landing at Fuzhou Changle Airport. The flight in question, HX115, was en route from Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport to Hong Kong. While no injuries were reported, the fire is suspected to have been caused by a power bank.
