New Power Bank Restrictions: Singapore Airlines to Limit Passengers to Two Units Starting 15 April

Travellers flying with Singapore Airlines (SIA) will need to double-check their tech pouches this week!

Following updated safety guidelines from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS), the national carrier is implementing strict new rules regarding the carriage of power banks.

Starting Wednesday, 15 April 2026, passengers will face new limits on the number of portable chargers they can bring on board and on how they must be stored.

Maximum two power banks allowed

Image credit: I'm Zion | Pexels

The most significant change for tech-heavy travellers is the new quantity limit. Passengers are now permitted to carry a maximum of only two power banks on board. SIA has stated that customers are responsible for disposing of any excess power banks before their flight, as they will not be permitted past the boarding gate.

Watt-Hour Limits & Approvals

Not all power banks are treated equally under the new safety protocol. The rules are divided by the device’s capacity (Wh):

• Up to 100Wh: Allowed without prior approval.

• 100Wh to 160Wh: Requires prior approval from the airline.

• Above 160Wh: Strictly prohibited on all flights.

Where to and not to keep your power banks

In a move to enhance cabin safety, SIA is also changing where these devices can be stored. While power banks must still be kept in cabin baggage (and are strictly forbidden in checked luggage), they can no longer be stowed in overhead compartments.

Instead, they must be kept in easily accessible locations, such as:

• The seat-back pocket in front of you.

• Under the seat in front of you.

This ensures that in the unlikely event of a battery malfunction or "thermal runaway," the cabin crew can identify and access the device immediately.

No Charging Mid-Flight

Image credit: Singapore Airlines | Official Facebook

Perhaps the most surprising update for long-haul passengers is the ban on usage. For safety reasons, power banks must not be charged using the aircraft's in-seat power outlets or USB ports. Furthermore, they must not be used to charge personal devices during the flight.

Passengers are encouraged to rely on the aircraft’s built-in USB and power ports for their charging needs instead.

How to know your power bank's Wh rating?

Traveller Tip: If you are flying on or after 15 April, check the "Wh" rating usually printed on the back of your power bank. If it only lists "mAh," you can calculate the Watt-hours using this formula:

(mAh \times V) / 1000 = Wh

If you're carrying power banks from 100Wh to 160Wh and require prior approval from the airline, contact the Singapore Airlines contact centre here before travel and be ready to provide the power bank’s make, model, and its Watt-hour (Wh) rating. Approval is subject to applicable requirements and verification.