The Qantas Group will implement new restrictions on the use of portable power banks across all Qantas, QantasLink and Jetstar flights.
Due to the growing use of power banks by travellers and the associated safety risks of damaged or defective lithium battery-powered devices, the changes follow a comprehensive internal safety review in recent months and work with other industry representatives including Virgin Australia, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and Oneworld carriers.
The changes are also informed by planned updates from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), expected in 2026.
From 15 December 2025, the following policy will apply:
- The use of power banks on board is prohibited.
- Charging of power banks onboard is prohibited, including via in-seat power or USB ports (where available).
- Customers may carry up to two power banks (each not exceeding a maximum capacity of 160 watt hours) in their cabin baggage.
- Power banks, spare batteries and personal electronic devices (PEDs) should be with the passenger, including in the seat pocket or under the seat in front. If this is not possible, then in a nearby overhead locker.
- All power banks must display battery specifications.
- Lithium batteries that are part of a "smart bag" must be removed from the bag and taken as carry-on, and stowed in the same way as power banks.
- Power banks will continue to be prohibited from checked baggage.
Keeping power banks and portable electronic devices within easy reach during a flight ensures that in the rare event of an issue our crew can identify and respond quickly.
Our current policy for spare batteries and power banks can be found here.
Information about these changes will be communicated to customers ahead of their flights, at check-in and at the terminal from 15 December 2025.
