According to sources reported by kyodonews.net, a new regulation will prohibit the use of power banks on flights in Japan starting in April. This law not only limits the use of power banks for charging smartphones but also includes restrictions on using electrical outlets on aircraft for charging devices. The decision signals a significant tightening of existing regulations that previously only recommended travelers keep power banks within reach during flights instead of in overhead storage.

The Japanese Ministry of Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism has identified lithium-ion batteries commonly used in power banks as potential fire hazards. These batteries can ignite due to impact or gradual degradation, thereby posing a safety risk on flights. Earlier recommendations to keep power banks accessible but not stored in overhead compartments have now been escalated to a full ban, reflecting heightened concerns over in-flight safety protocols regarding battery hazards.

As of October 1, 2025, even the use of any power banks on Emirates flights will be prohibited, showcasing a broader trend in the aviation industry towards stricter safety measures concerning lithium-ion batteries. The prohibition on carrying external batteries for mobile phones in checked luggage remains in place, and only a limited number of batteries with specific power capacities are allowed in carry-on baggage, which aims to minimize risks associated with battery fires during flights.