Five South Korean Airlines Ban In-Flight Use of Portable Batteries

Hanjin Group’s five airlines—Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, Jin Air, Air Busan, and Air Seoul—will ban the use of portable batteries onboard aircraft starting Jan. 26 due to concerns over lithium-ion battery fires, officials told The Straits Times.

The airlines said storing portable batteries in overhead bins is strictly prohibited, as delayed detection of abnormal heat or smoke could lead to a serious accident, especially mid-air. (Photo: Korean Air)

The new regulation prohibits the use of portable batteries to charge any electronic devices, including mobile phones, tablets, laptops, and cameras, on both domestic and international flights.

Passengers will also be barred from charging portable batteries during the flight.

After boarding, passengers will be required to keep portable batteries within arm’s reach.

The airlines said storing portable batteries in overhead bins is strictly prohibited, as delayed detection of abnormal heat or smoke could lead to a serious accident, especially mid-air.

The carriers plan to inform passengers of the updated regulations through official websites, mobile apps, airport check-in counters, and mobile notifications.

Continuous announcements will also be made at boarding gates and onboard aircraft to minimize confusion.

“The complete ban on the in-flight use of portable batteries is an inevitable measure to ensure safe flight operations; cooperation from passengers is vital,” a Korean Air official said.