Built-in case powerbank?
Oct 7, 2025 | 12:00 pm
#1
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Join Date: Nov 1999
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Built-in case powerbank?
I have an iPhone XS Max that has a protective case with a built-in powerbank. Since such appears to be a rare item, does anyone have an idea if it's permitted onboard (at least if not flying from the PRC or on a PRC airline). There's absolutely no safety agency markings on it.
I'd take off the case but I don't have another one to use.
I'd take off the case but I don't have another one to use.
Oct 8, 2025 | 7:42 pm
#2
Join Date: Jul 2014
Posts: 1,605
Is it larger than 100W? If not, and since you are not flying within the PRC, I am not aware of any significant new restrictions which determine whether a power bank can fly as cabin luggage.
What might be required is that the power bank not charge your phone (so I guess remove it on the plane), not be placed in the overhead compartment, have the capacity listed on the battery, etc.
The other thread on power banks lists (some of) the new regulations recently issued, many airlines seem to be aligning on a list of similar requirements (as above).
What might be required is that the power bank not charge your phone (so I guess remove it on the plane), not be placed in the overhead compartment, have the capacity listed on the battery, etc.
The other thread on power banks lists (some of) the new regulations recently issued, many airlines seem to be aligning on a list of similar requirements (as above).
Oct 14, 2025 | 2:49 pm
#3
Join Date: Jan 2015
Posts: 3,739
I have an iPhone XS Max that has a protective case with a built-in powerbank. Since such appears to be a rare item, does anyone have an idea if it's permitted onboard (at least if not flying from the PRC or on a PRC airline). There's absolutely no safety agency markings on it.
I'd take off the case but I don't have another one to use.
I'd take off the case but I don't have another one to use.
Is it larger than 100W? If not, and since you are not flying within the PRC, I am not aware of any significant new restrictions which determine whether a power bank can fly as cabin luggage.
What might be required is that the power bank not charge your phone (so I guess remove it on the plane), not be placed in the overhead compartment, have the capacity listed on the battery, etc.
The other thread on power banks lists (some of) the new regulations recently issued, many airlines seem to be aligning on a list of similar requirements (as above).
What might be required is that the power bank not charge your phone (so I guess remove it on the plane), not be placed in the overhead compartment, have the capacity listed on the battery, etc.
The other thread on power banks lists (some of) the new regulations recently issued, many airlines seem to be aligning on a list of similar requirements (as above).
Oct 17, 2025 | 12:09 pm
#5
Join Date: Jul 2014
Posts: 1,605
I would be more concerned about the lack of markings on the power bank period. Every time I've had to travel through PRC, any power bank of mine without markings has been confiscated. They were confiscated. It hasn't bothered me as they were usually the older, used for several years type so the markings have usually "rubbed off". There is also that new marking required by the PRC... If you plan on travelling domestically via airplane or possibly train, I would suggest being cautious. Likely won't get in trouble, but you could have the case confiscated.
Agree with Ditto that a limit on power banks would technically apply.
Would be good to add it to the other thread / wiki: Power bank rules & regulations inflight
Seems Emirates has implemented a similar limit of 1 power bank, as has FlyDubai. Perhaps was part of a set of recommendations by the UAEs aviation authority(-ies)?
Last edited by crackjack; Oct 17, 2025 at 12:25 pm
Oct 18, 2025 | 8:01 pm
#6
Join Date: Jan 2015
Posts: 3,739
Unfortunately previous experience would say otherwise. Not sure what the direction is, but they could enforce it with outbound international travel as well... wouldn't be the first time. Time will tell though.
Oct 19, 2025 | 5:44 am
#7
Join Date: Jul 2014
Posts: 1,605
(The requirement for *watt-hours to be listed has been applicable to international flights for years.)
However, given the fire on the Air China flight to Seoul Incheon just this last week, wouldnt be surprised if it got extended to international flights too
Last edited by crackjack; Nov 2, 2025 at 1:21 am
Dec 4, 2025 | 4:48 pm
#8
Original Poster
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Nov 1999
Programs: FB PLT again afater a decade as plebian
Posts: 22,942
Reporting back. Took the phone through Canadian security 3x, French security 2x, Austrian security 1x, Tunisian security 1x, Saudi security 2x, and Malaysia 1x. No one said anything.