Saudi GACA Bans Power Bank Charging Onboard Flights Over Safety Concerns

Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has officially banned the charging of power banks on board all flights operating within and from the Kingdom. The directive, issued to all national and international carriers, aims to mitigate fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries during flight. Safety Protocols and Battery Risks The new regulation prohibits passengers from connecting portable chargers to any power source or using them to charge electronic devices while the aircraft is in the air. While power banks are still permitted in carry-on luggage—provided they meet specific capacity limits (typically under 100Wh or 160Wh with prior approval)—their active use for charging is now restricted. Aviation safety experts note that lithium-ion batteries can undergo thermal runaway if they overheat or short-circuit. In a pressurized cabin, a battery fire is significantly harder to extinguish and poses a direct threat to the aircraft’s electrical systems and passenger safety. Compliance for Travelers Airlines operating in Saudi Arabian airspace are required to update their safety briefings and notify passengers of these restrictions before takeoff. Ground crews and…