People have been urged to never take power banks on a flight if they notice three specific warning signs.
This comes as part of a campaign from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), which is trying to raise awareness among passengers of the dangers caused by everyday electrical items being packed in the wrong place.
Rechargeable lithium batteries in power banks can cause a fire risk in either the cabin or hold.
Data from the CAA shows reports of overheating or malfunctioning passenger devices almost doubled between 2024 and 2025, following a 98% year-on-year rise.
“Power banks are popular travel items that keep you powered up on the go,” Giuseppe Capanna, product safety engineer at Electrical Safety First, explains.
“But they contain lithium-ion batteries which can hold a sizable amount of energy in a very small space, so can pose a serious fire risk if they become damaged or are manufactured to a substandard level.”
Three warning signs that your power bank is not working and dangerous
The signs that your power bank could be dangerous are if it starts to bulge, swell or change shape.
Capanna explains: "Swollen power banks are a sign of an internal failure, and it may mean the device is at risk of catching fire, sparking a dangerous process called thermal runaway, where toxic fumes are expelled, and a fire occurs.
“If you notice any damage or deformation to your power bank when you’re packing for your holiday abroad, don’t bring the device with you.
"Instead, safely dispose of it as soon as possible at a local recycling centre that has dedicated facilities for electronics and batteries.
“Always follow airline rules and never put power banks in your checked luggage.
"Only take them in the cabin and if you spot any signs of damage or deformation while flying, alert airline staff straight away.”
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Capanna always recommends buying power banks from a reputable high street retailer and not an online marketplace.
Additionally, make sure to keep it away from heat sources and liquids such as direct sunlight, humidity or water.
Had you been aware of the risk that faulty power banks could cause on planes? Let us know in the comments.
