Power Bank Ban On Singapore Airlines And Scoot Flights: What Passengers Need To Know

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Post on Mar 13, 2025

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Power Bank Ban on Singapore Airlines and Scoot Flights: What Passengers Need to Know

Singapore Airlines (SIA) and its budget subsidiary Scoot have implemented stricter rules regarding the carriage of power banks on their flights, leaving many passengers scrambling to understand the new regulations. This updated policy aims to enhance flight safety, but it also means significant changes for travelers accustomed to relying on portable chargers for their electronic devices. This article clarifies the new rules and provides essential information for all passengers flying with SIA and Scoot.

What's Changed?

Previously, passengers could generally bring power banks on board with relatively few restrictions. However, the new regulations significantly tighten these rules, focusing on power bank capacity and storage. The key changes are:

• Capacity Limits: Power banks exceeding 100 Wh (watt-hours) are now strictly prohibited from being carried in both checked and cabin baggage. This applies to both SIA and Scoot flights.
• Restricted Spare Batteries: Spare batteries for electronic devices, including those for power banks, also face stricter regulations. These batteries are subject to the same 100 Wh limit. Only two spare batteries per passenger are allowed, and they must be individually protected to prevent short circuits.
• Declaration is Mandatory: Passengers are now required to declare any power banks or spare batteries they are carrying to airline staff before boarding. Failure to declare these items could result in fines or confiscation.
• No Charging During Flight: While you can carry a power bank that meets the requirements, charging them during the flight is generally discouraged and may be prohibited depending on the aircraft type and cabin crew instructions.

Why the stricter rules?

These stricter regulations are a direct response to increasing concerns about the potential fire hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries found in power banks. While rare, incidents involving these batteries have prompted airlines worldwide to review and strengthen their safety protocols. The 100Wh limit is a widely adopted industry standard aimed at mitigating this risk.

What Passengers Should Do:

• Check Your Power Bank's Capacity: Before your flight, carefully check the watt-hour (Wh) rating printed on your power bank. If it exceeds 100Wh, you will need to leave it at home. Remember that milliampere-hours (mAh) needs to be converted to Wh for this check. Many online converters are readily available.
• Pack Appropriately: If your power bank is compliant, pack it securely in your carry-on baggage, and not in checked baggage. Keep it readily accessible for security checks.
• Declare Your Power Banks: Remember to declare your power bank(s) and any spare batteries to airline personnel during check-in or at the gate. This is crucial to avoid any issues.
• Consult the Airline: If you have any doubts or questions regarding the new power bank policy, it's best to contact Singapore Airlines or Scoot directly before your departure.

Consequences of Non-Compliance:

Failure to comply with these regulations can result in several consequences, including:

• Confiscation of your power bank(s) and/or spare batteries.
• Significant fines.
• Possible delays or denied boarding.

Staying Updated:

Airline regulations can change, so always check the official Singapore Airlines and Scoot websites for the most up-to-date information before your trip. Staying informed is crucial for a smooth and safe journey. Safe travels!