A domestic flight in China turned into a nightmare and ignited safety concerns across the globe after a power bank caught fire inside an overhead luggage compartment. The incident which took place on 24 July, 2026, once again is drawing attention to one of aviation’s fastest-growing safety concerns which is ‘lithium-ion batteries’. The incident has prompted fresh debate about stricter measures on airlines, with many carriers around the world tightening regulations on carrying and using portable chargers onboard. For Indian travellers, who increasingly rely on power banks during long journeys, understanding these rules has become more important than ever.What happened aboard a China Eastern flightThe scary incident took place aboard a China Eastern Airlines flight. The flight had just landed at Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport and suddenly a passenger’s power bank kept in an overhead compartment suddenly caught fire. In no time, the cabin was engulfed with smoke and leaving passengers scared. Thankfully, the cabin crew responded quickly and used fire extinguishers and water bottles to stop the fire from spreading. Passengers were evacuated safely after the aircraft reached the gate. No serious injuries were reported.The video of the incidentThe incident was recorded on phone and soon the videos surfaced on social media which look scary enough. Thankfully, the situation was brought under control but aviation experts say the incident highlights how even a small portable charger can become dangerous.Why lithium batteries
Damaged Power bank (Canva)
- Portable power banks are consumer electronic devices.
- Damage, defects, overcharging, exposure to heat, can trigger thermal runaway.
- Lithium battery fires are challenging because they burn at extremely high temperatures
- These can reignite even after appearing to be extinguished
And these are the prime reasons why aviation authorities worldwide have long prohibited power banks in checked baggage.Not the first incidentThere have been many battery fires over the past two years, including incidents involving Hong Kong Airlines and Air Busan. This has led Asia to introduce stricter policies. Some carriers now prohibit passengers from charging power banks during flights, while others require them to remain within sight rather than inside overhead lockers.Countries including South Korea and Japan have already strengthened regulations after similar battery-related incidents. Some important guidelines:
Portable Charger (Canva)
- Carry power banks only in cabin baggage (never in checked luggage).
- Most airlines allow power banks up to 100Wh without prior approval.
- Devices rated between 100Wh and 160Wh may require airline permission (check with the airline).
- Power banks exceeding 160Wh are generally not allowed.
- Avoid using damaged, swollen or old chargers
Why airlines are discouraging in-flight chargingThe reason is simple. Charging increases battery temperature. If a defective battery begins overheating while hidden inside a backpack or overhead bin, cabin crew may lose precious time before detecting smoke.Though cabin crew are trained, prevention is always better. They receive special training to deal with lithium battery fires.Tips for travelling safely with a power bank
Fire incident
- Buy only certified power banks
- Replace chargers showing signs of swelling, damage or overheating.
- Keep the device switched off when not in use.
- Store them where they remain easily accessible during the flight.
As airlines across the globe continue tightening safety rules, Indian travellers should make checking power bank policies part of every pre-flight routine and ensure a safer journey for everyone onboard.
