Air travellers flying to, from or through Qatar will now face stricter regulations on carrying power banks, following updated safety rules issued by the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA) in line with the latest guidance from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
The revised regulations are aimed at reducing the risk of lithium battery-related fires onboard aircraft and introduce tighter controls on how passengers carry and use power banks during flights.
Under the new rules, each passenger is permitted to carry a maximum of two power banks, with each device not exceeding 100 watt-hours (Wh) in capacity.
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The QCAA also emphasised that power banks must only be carried in hand luggage and are strictly prohibited in checked baggage due to the fire risks associated with lithium batteries.
Passengers are equally barred from charging power banks during flights. In addition, charging terminals must be properly protected to prevent accidental damage or short circuits.
To enable cabin crew to respond quickly in the event of overheating or fire, travellers are advised to keep their power banks within easy reach throughout the flight rather than storing them in overhead compartments or seat-side storage pockets.
Authorities further urged passengers to check with their respective airlines for any additional restrictions, as some carriers may impose stricter requirements.
The aviation regulator warned that passengers who fail to comply with dangerous goods regulations or disregard instructions from flight crew could face legal action.
The updated measures form part of ongoing international efforts to enhance aviation safety as the number of portable electronic devices powered by lithium batteries continues to rise among travellers.
