To enhance safety, SWISS and Edelweiss airlines are introducing new regulations from January 15th on the carrying and use of power banks on board their planes.
In short, power banks may no longer be used or charged during the flight, and a maximum of two power banks may be brought on board per passenger.
Charging the power bank itself from the aircraft’s electrical power supply is also now prohibited.
A statement from the airline said: “The new rules enhance safety on board for both passengers and crew members: with its lithium battery, a malfunctioning power bank is a potential fire risk.”
Power banks may also no longer be placed in the overhead baggage compartments: they must be kept on the passenger’s person, stowed in the seat pocket or in carry-on baggage under the seat in front.
The airline also set the maximum battery power that will permitted at100 watt-hours.
“Power banks with a battery power of between 100 and a maximum of 160 watt-hours may only be brought on board with prior airline approval,” the airline said.
These devices remain prohibited in checked baggage as well. The airline says the same rules apply for e-cigarettes.
More information about this ban can be found on the SWISS website.
