Japan actually Ban the use of portable batteries during flights starting in mid-April. after a “recent series alarming incidents“reports the Asahi Shimbun. From the report: Currently, cell phone batteries in Japan are classified as “spare batteries” and are prohibited in checked luggage. For carry-on luggage, those exceeding 160 watt-hours are prohibited, while passengers are limited to two units for those exceeding 100 watt-hours. There is no quantity limit for batteries of 100 watt-hours or less. The new rule will limit passengers to a total of two spare batteries, including power banks.
While there is no limit on the number of spare batteries under 100 watt-hours, carrying external batteries exceeding 160 watt-hours will still be prohibited. Power banks will be limited to two units regardless of power capacity. In addition, they will be prohibited from being carried on board and passengers will be “recommended” not to use them at all. As a result, domestic airlines are expected to require passengers to stop using power banks, cementing the effective ban on in-flight use.
