UK CAA Warns Power Bank Flight Incidents Rose 15% Since 2019
Updated
Updated · BBC.com · May 25
UK CAA Warns Power Bank Flight Incidents Rose 15% Since 2019
10 articles · Updated · BBC.com · May 25
Two flights a week on average in 2024 saw lithium-battery thermal runaway incidents, the UK Civil Aviation Authority said, warning portable charger problems on flights are increasing and can trigger serious fires.
The regulator urged passengers to keep power banks in cabin bags, not checked luggage, limit themselves to two devices, and never charge a power bank in flight because overheating risk is highest then.
EasyJet flight EZY2618 from Hurghada to London Luton diverted to Rome last week after a passenger reported a power bank in the hold, forcing an overnight delay.
A CAA survey of 1,000 UK passengers in November 2025 found more than a third knew lithium-battery rules existed but were unclear on the details, prompting a summer awareness campaign with airlines.
With battery fires surging on flights, can passenger education campaigns truly prevent a future mid-air catastrophe?
Flight crews are the only firefighters at 30,000 feet. Are they truly equipped for the increasing risk of severe battery fires?