Singapore announces stricter in-flight battery rules

Travellers flying out of Singapore will have to take note of a new power bank rule on board.

From 15 April, passengers are allowed no more than two power banks each on flights. All excess devices will have to be disposed before takeoff.

Other existing requirements continue to apply. These include the prohibition of power banks in check-in baggage, device capacity limits and the requirement for power banks to be individually protected to prevent short circuits – such as keeping them in protective pouches.

On capacity, power banks of up to 100Wh may be carried without prior approval. Power banks between 100Wh and 160Wh require prior approval from the airline. Power banks above 160Wh are not allowed on board.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) said the new restrictions for power banks on flights departing Singapore are in place to “reduce the risk of fire while catering for passengers' travelling needs”.

CAAS has buffered slightly over a week for airlines to inform passengers of the new requirements. Reminders will also be displayed at key touchpoints across Changi airport.

About a week ago in end March, Hong Kong and Macao also implemented the same new rules, joining a growing number of Asia Pacific destinations which have enforced stricter use of power banks aboard aircraft.