Rules for Portable Batteries on Planes Are Changing. Here’s What to Know.

The rules around flying with portable batteries are becoming increasingly confusing as some airlines in Asia change their policies, citing the risk of fires.

Airlines in South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and Singapore have tightened restrictions since a fire destroyed an Air Busan plane on the tarmac in South Korea in January, one of several recent aviation accidents that have made travelers anxious.

There is no definitive link between portable batteries and the Air Busan fire, and an investigation is underway. But because rules vary across airlines, you may find yourself having to repack or turn off such batteries when you board a plane. Here’s what you need to know.

Which airlines have changed their rules and why?

As of March 1, passengers on all South Korean airlines must keep their portable chargers within arm’s reach and out of overhead bins. The government implemented the rule to ease anxiety about the risk of battery fires, the Transportation Ministry said.

Some Taiwanese airlines implemented similar changes that also took effect on March 1. EVA Air and China Airlines announced a ban on using or charging power banks on their planes, although the batteries can still be stored in overhead compartments.