Qantas and Jetstar will ban portable power banks in-flight from December 15, 2025, due to fire safety concerns. Qantas and its low-cost subsidiary Jetstar have joined other airlines in restricting the use of portable power banks in-flight amid fears the devices can overheat and catch fire unexpectedly.
In recent months, the aviation industry has faced a rise in mid-flight incidents linked to lithium batteries in portable power banks and other devices. Airlines highlight the risk because such batteries are larger than those in typical devices like mobile phones and because many passengers buy power banks from online retailers with questionable safety certifications.
The Qantas Group notes that the new restrictions follow a comprehensive internal safety review that has been months in the making. Prior to implementing the rules, Qantas collaborated with industry representatives from Virgin Australia, the International Air Transport Association, and partners across the oneworld alliance.
“comprehensive internal safety review,” months in the making
From December 15, passengers on any Qantas Group airline operated by Qantas, Jetstar, or QantasLink must comply with the new power bank rules. The policy aims to enhance in-flight fire safety and align with broader industry precautionary measures.
Author’s summary: The directive tightens in-flight safety by banning portable power banks from December 15, 2025, reflecting industry concerns about lithium battery fires and heightened scrutiny of consumer safety certifications.