Major UK airport to introduce new limit on popular item for hand luggage
Passengers face new hand luggage limits as airport cracks down on item over safety fears
Passengers travelling through one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs will soon face new restrictions on a common item in hand luggage, as safety concerns prompt tighter rules.
Singapore Changi Airport will introduce new limits on power banks from April 15, 2026, under updated regulations from the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore. Under the new rules, passengers will be allowed to carry a maximum of two power banks in their hand luggage. Anyone travelling with more than two will be required to dispose of the excess devices before boarding.
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In addition, travellers will not be permitted to charge power banks during flights, and are advised not to use them to charge other devices while on board.
The move is aimed at reducing the risk posed by lithium-ion batteries, which are commonly used in portable chargers. These batteries can overheat or short-circuit, potentially leading to fires.
Changi Airport, which handled around 70 million passengers in 2025, is a major global transit hub, making the changes significant for international travellers, including those from the UK passing through on long-haul journeys.
Officials say the updated rules are part of wider safety measures designed to minimise fire risks while still allowing passengers to carry essential devices.
Airlines operating from Singapore will be responsible for informing passengers of the changes, while airport staff are being trained to enforce the new requirements. Notices will also be displayed throughout terminals to remind travellers.
Existing rules will remain in place, including a ban on power banks in checked luggage and requirements for devices to be protected against short-circuiting, such as being stored in protective cases.
Experts have long warned about the dangers of lithium-ion batteries if damaged or poorly manufactured. In extreme cases, they can trigger what is known as thermal runaway, a chain reaction that can lead to intense fires and toxic fumes.
The latest move follows a wider crackdown across the aviation industry. Several airlines, including Emirates and Vietnam Airlines, have already introduced restrictions or outright bans on the use of power banks during flights.
Passengers are being advised to check their airline’s specific policies before travelling, as rules can vary between carriers.
With demand for portable chargers continuing to grow, aviation authorities are increasingly focusing on balancing convenience with safety, as concerns over battery-related incidents remain a key issue for airlines worldwide.
