Vietnam Airlines bans use of lithium-ion power banks on all flights

In an announcement issued on Tuesday, the airline said it is introducing stricter measures to control the transport of lithium-ion power banks, aiming to reduce risks and uphold aviation safety standards.

Accordingly, lithium-ion power banks must be carried in hand luggage and are not allowed in checked baggage.

Passengers are required to declare them at check-in and, during the flight, keep them outside their carry-on bags in a visible location to facilitate monitoring and ensure timely detection of any irregularities.

Vietnam Airlines said its aircraft are equipped with specialized tools such as heat-resistant gloves and fire- and smoke-resistant containment bags to handle incidents involving lithium-ion batteries.

All equipment is supplied by leading global manufacturers and has been approved by the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam.

The airline added that its crews are fully trained to respond quickly and effectively to any unusual situations.

The airline has worked with the Immigration Department under the Ministry of Public Security to strengthen security screening at major international airports, including Noi Bai in Hanoi and Tan Son Nhat in Ho Chi Minh City, to detect risks from lithium-ion batteries and other power sources before take-offs.

Lithium-ion batteries, commonly found in personal electronic devices and power banks, are strictly prohibited in checked baggage under international aviation safety standards because of their high risk of fire or explosion if damaged or overheated.

Several international airlines have recently reported incidents of smoke or fire in passenger cabins linked to lithium-ion batteries, forcing emergency landings.

The technology sector has also raised alarms.

On September 1, a major tech company issued a worldwide recall of a 20,000 mAh power bank over overheating risks that could lead to fires or explosions.

Amid the global tightening of flight safety regulations, airlines including China Airlines, Korean Air, Hong Kong Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and Emirates have introduced bans on the in-flight use of lithium-ion power banks this year.

Vietnam Airlines said it will continue to conduct regular risk assessments and update its lithium-ion battery control measures in line with guidance from the International Civil Aviation Organization, the International Air Transport Association, and both domestic and international regulators to ensure the highest level of flight safety.