Khaberni - In a step aimed at enhancing aviation safety, Japan has announced imposing new restrictions on the use of portable chargers (power banks) during air travel, becoming one of the strictest countries in this field.
Travelers will not be allowed to use portable chargers or charge their devices using them on commercial flights to and from Japan, starting from the end of April 2026.
However, passengers can still carry up to two devices in their carry-on luggage, but without operating them during the flight, according to a report published by "slashgear" and reviewed by "Al Arabiya Business".
The restrictions also include banning the charging of devices that use lithium-ion batteries using the airplane's electrical outlets, as part of precautionary measures to reduce the risks of overheating or fire outbreaks.
Increasing concerns over lithium batteries
This step comes amid increasing incidents related to lithium-ion batteries, which are used in most modern electronic devices.
In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration has recorded more than 700 incidents since 2006, involving cases of smoke, fire, or excessive heat.
In one notable incident in 2025, an electronic device belonging to a passenger led to a fire inside an American Airlines aircraft, forcing the crew to make an emergency landing.
In Japan, 123 incidents related to batteries were recorded in 2024, an increase of up to 160% compared to 2020, prompting authorities to tighten procedures.
Renewed international regulations
These restrictions are based on updates issued by the International Civil Aviation Organization, affiliated with the United Nations, which works to coordinate aviation safety standards among countries.
On the other hand, laws in other countries are still less stringent, where the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the USA allows carrying portable chargers in carry-on luggage, while banning them in checked baggage.
Advice for travelers
As laws vary between countries and airlines, travelers are advised to review regulations specific to each airline before traveling, to avoid any surprises that could disrupt their trip or lead to the confiscation of their devices.
These developments reflect a growing global trend towards tightening control over electronic devices inside aircraft, amid escalating concerns related to battery safety.
