Airlines tighten restrictions on the use of portable batteries on board
23-03-25
In response to recent incidents involving portable batteries, several airlines have implemented stricter measures to ensure the safety of passengers and crew. These actions aim to mitigate risks associated with inappropriate use of electronic devices during flights.
On 28 January 2025, an Air Busan Airbus A321-231, which was about to take off from Busan to Hong Kong, suffered a fire in the rear cabin. Investigations pointed to an exploding portable battery as the probable cause of the incident. The incident prompted the South Korean authorities to reconsider policies on the carriage of these devices on commercial flights.
Following this event, Air Busan banned the storage of portable batteries in overhead compartments, requiring passengers to keep them with them for the duration of the flight. Since 1 March, all South Korean airlines have adopted similar regulations: passengers must carry lithium batteries and electronic cigarettes in their hand luggage and are not allowed to carry them on board.