Japan to tighten in-flight power bank use rules

All Japanese airlines are set to restrict the use of power banks and in-flight charging on flights departing from and arriving at the country’s airports from April 2026, NHK World reported, citing Japan’s transport ministry.

The upcoming ban will apply to passengers using external batteries to charge their devices, as well as charging power banks through seat power outlets. However, passengers will still be permitted to carry up to two power banks in the cabin per person.

According to The Japan Times, current Japanese regulations already prohibit passengers from placing external batteries in checked baggage, and batteries exceeding 160 Wh are banned altogether. Power banks with a capacity between 100 Wh and 160 Wh may be permitted in carry-on baggage, typically limited to two units per passenger.

The move aims to prevent incidents related to the potential ignition or smoking of lithium batteries in the cabin.

Notably, Kazakhstan’s flag carrier Air Astana introduced restrictions on the use and transportation of power banks in March 2025. Under the updated regulations, batteries exceeding 160 watt-hours are completely prohibited. Passengers are allowed to bring up to two external batteries in carry-on baggage, provided each does not exceed 100 Wh. Devices rated between 100 Wh and 160 Wh may be permitted with prior approval from the airline.