As summer travel ramps up across the UK and beyond, aviation authorities are intensifying warnings about the dangers posed by lithium battery-powered devices, especially power banks, in checked luggage. Despite clear regulations, the number of such devices found in aircraft holds has nearly doubled within a year, raising alarms about the escalating fire risk on flights during the busiest travel season.
Rising Incidents Highlight Growing Safety Threat
Lithium batteries, prized for their high energy density and compact size, power a vast array of personal electronics—from smartphones and laptops to vapes and power banks. However, this same energy density can become a hazard if batteries overheat, are damaged, or are of substandard quality. Fires sparked by lithium batteries can ignite rapidly and spread fiercely, posing a severe threat to aircraft safety.
According to the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), incidents involving lithium battery devices in checked baggage surged from 316 in 2024 to 643 in 2025. Reports of devices overheating or malfunctioning nearly doubled as well, increasing from 123 to 206 cases in the same period. While most battery-related issues occur in the passenger cabin—where crew can respond swiftly—the real danger lies in the aircraft hold, where fires may go unnoticed until they become uncontrollable.
Last month, an EasyJet flight was forced to divert to Rome after crew discovered a power bank had been mistakenly packed in the hold. Similarly, a dramatic fire aboard an Air China flight in October 2025 was reportedly caused by a lithium battery in the overhead compartment, underscoring the unpredictable nature of these incidents.
Why Power Banks and Vapes Are Particularly Risky
Power banks have become ubiquitous travel companions, offering convenient recharging on the go. Yet their portability and high-capacity batteries make them especially susceptible to damage and overheating if mishandled. Vapes, which also contain lithium batteries, share similar risks. When these devices are stowed in checked luggage, there is no immediate access to detect or extinguish a fire, which could lead to catastrophic consequences.
Giuseppe Capanna, a product safety engineer at Electrical Safety First, explains that while most lithium battery devices are safe, the majority of incidents stem from “substandard versions” often purchased from unverified third-party sellers. These products may lack proper safety certifications, increasing the chances of malfunctions. Capanna stresses the importance of travelers using only tested and certified devices to minimize risks.
Regulations and Best Practices for Travelers
The CAA and airlines emphasize that passengers should never pack power banks, vapes, or similar lithium battery devices in checked luggage. Instead, these items must be carried in the cabin, where any fire can be promptly addressed by the crew. Specific guidelines include:
- Carrying no more than two power banks per person onboard.
- Ensuring power banks are not charged during the flight.
- Turning off laptops completely if they must be placed in checked baggage.
Despite these rules, many travelers remain unaware or inadvertently violate them, contributing to the rising number of incidents. Tim Alderslade, Chief Executive of Airlines UK, highlights that prevention begins with passengers packing responsibly, as crew training can only mitigate risks once a problem arises.
Implications for Airlines and Future Travel Safety
The surge in lithium battery incidents presents a mounting challenge for airlines, regulators, and passengers alike. Beyond the immediate safety risks, these events can cause significant operational disruptions, including flight delays and costly diversions. In some cases, aircraft may require extensive inspections or repairs following battery-related incidents.
As electronic devices become increasingly integral to daily life and travel, the aviation industry faces pressure to enhance public awareness and possibly tighten regulations. Some experts advocate for stronger enforcement measures, improved passenger education campaigns, and encouraging manufacturers to improve battery safety standards.
Ultimately, ensuring safe skies during the summer travel rush and beyond hinges on collective responsibility. Passengers must stay informed and comply with safety guidelines, airlines need to maintain rigorous screening and response protocols, and regulators must continue adapting policies to address evolving technological risks.
With millions preparing to take to the skies this summer, the message is clear: keep power banks and lithium battery devices close at hand in the cabin, and leave them out of checked luggage to help prevent potentially devastating fires in flight.
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For more context, see related Peack News coverage and explainers linked below.