In pursuit of air safety, addressing incidents related to external batteries (power banks), every South Korean carrier has prohibited using them onboard, Yonhap reported.
There are 11 passenger airlines in the country, with the latest to introduce the limitations being T’way Air, starting Feb. 23. The first in South Korea to implement the restriction was low-cost carrier Eastar Jet last October.
It is still allowed to carry the power banks, but only in carry-on baggage and not in overhead compartments, being always within reach. Each device must be put in a separate pouch or have its exposed connectors covered with insulating tape.
Notably, to address the same safety concerns, Japan will tighten rules on in-flight power banks starting April 2026, prohibiting their use and charging through seat power outlets.
Kazakhstan’s flag carrier, Air Astana, introduced restrictions on the use and transportation of power banks in March 2025.
