Starting January 26, 2026, Korean Air and four Hanjin Group airlines—Asiana Airlines, Jin Air, Air Busan and Air Seoul—will prohibit passengers from using power banks during flights due to growing safety concerns over lithium-ion battery fires.
While travelers may still bring power banks onboard within existing capacity and quantity restrictions, charging devices or the power banks themselves will be strictly forbidden.
To minimize risks, passengers must cover metal charging ports with electrical tape or store batteries in separate plastic bags. Power banks must remain within personal reach rather than stored in overhead bins.
The ban follows an increase in in-flight fire incidents involving lithium-ion power banks. Airlines will notify passengers through multiple channels, including websites, mobile apps, check-in counters, boarding announcements, and in-flight messages.
Korean Air has already implemented additional safety protocols, including distributing insulation tape at check-in, equipping aircraft with fire-containment bags, installing temperature-sensitive stickers on overhead bins, and enhancing crew training for fire emergencies.
“The ban on the in-flight use of power banks is a necessary measure to ensure the highest standards of flight safety, and passenger cooperation is essential,” said a Korean Air representative. “Korean Air remains fully committed to providing a safe, secure and comfortable travel experience for all customers.”
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