Can I use a power bank during a flight?
- Last reviewed
- Ruleset
- 2026-05-15
- Reviewed by
- CertiWatt source integrity workflow
Short answer: Do not assume you can use a power bank during the flight. The 2026 rule prohibits recharging the power bank from aircraft power, IATA says power banks should not power other devices during taxi, take-off, or landing, and airlines may impose stricter in-flight use bans.
The clearest 2026 requirement is that passengers must not recharge a power bank from an in-aircraft power supply. That means no pass-through setup where aircraft USB or seat power charges the power bank.
Using a power bank to charge a phone is more airline-sensitive. IATA passenger guidance says power banks should not provide power to other devices during taxi, take-off, or landing, while some airlines restrict use more broadly.
The practical traveler answer is to keep the power bank accessible, follow crew instructions, and avoid any charging setup that leaves the power bank unattended or hidden in a bag.
Rule summary
- Hard rule
- Do not recharge the power bank from aircraft power.
- Taxi/takeoff/landing
- IATA says power banks should not power other devices during these phases.
- Airline policy
- Airlines may impose stricter conditions or full in-flight use bans.
- Best practice
- Keep the device visible and accessible; follow crew instructions.
Check your device
The final answer can change by model, airline, country, certification mark, label evidence, and recall status.
Check my airline ruleFAQ
Can I charge my phone with a power bank after takeoff?
It depends on the airline and crew instructions. The strict 2026 rule is no recharging the power bank from aircraft power; some airlines also restrict using power banks to charge devices.
Can I use a wireless magnetic power bank in flight?
Treat wireless power banks cautiously. IATA identifies wireless power banks as an emerging safety concern, and airline restrictions can be stricter.
Can I leave a power bank charging a device in my bag?
No. Keep the power bank visible and accessible so crew can respond quickly if it overheats.
Sources and evidence
This guide is reviewed against CertiWatt ruleset 2026-05-15. Active rule citations pass the source integrity release gate before deployment; trip-specific verdicts can still cite additional regulator, airline, manufacturer, or recall sources.
Informational only. Final decision rests with airline and security staff. Why we said this.