Thousands of British travelers are set to face disruptions due to a new stringent regulation concerning carry-on luggage. Singapore has emerged as a popular destination known for its modern architecture, iconic landmarks, diverse culinary scene boasting Michelin-starred food courts, and abundant green spaces earning it the moniker ‘Garden City’. Approximately 580,000 UK tourists annually visit Singapore, utilizing it as a key transit point for connecting flights globally.
Effective April 15th, individuals departing from Singapore, including those heading back to the UK, will encounter limitations on the number of power banks allowed in their hand luggage. Travelers will now be restricted to carrying a maximum of two power banks per person on flights departing from Singapore’s airport.
The move aims to mitigate the potential hazards posed by power banks during flights, as highlighted by safety experts at the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). These experts have cited the risk of lithium batteries in power banks entering a state of “thermal runaway,” leading to severe consequences like fire, explosions, and the release of harmful fumes.
Passengers flying out of Singapore’s Changi Airport will receive notifications regarding the updated hand luggage regulations. Authorities are collaborating with airlines to ensure a smooth implementation of the new requirements. This development follows the recent safety guidelines revision by the International Civil Aviation Organisation, mandating a limit of two power banks per passenger on flights, with Singapore aligning itself with the updated standards.
Notably, the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore has granted a transitional period for airlines and passengers to adjust to the new rules, which will officially come into effect on April 15, 2026. The Director of Flight Standards at CAAS emphasized that the revised regulations are vital in reducing the fire risk associated with power banks onboard flights, urging compliance from all passengers for their safety and that of others.
Additionally, it is specified that power banks are not to be charged during the flight and must be stored solely in hand luggage, not checked baggage. Certain airlines, including budget carriers like Ryanair, EasyJet, and TUI, enforce specific restrictions on power bank carriage, necessitating passengers to verify individual airline policies to avoid any inconveniences.
