Saudi Airport New Rule About Power Banks
Saudi Arabia has introduced major new restrictions on the carriage and use of power banks on flights as it implements new aviation safety rules that will impact millions of passengers flying to, from, and within the Kingdom. The new directives were issued by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) as part of a broader effort to reduce the risks of fire on board as a result of lithium battery devices. The new rules will be applied to all airlines flying to Saudi airports and are of great importance for Hajj and Umrah travelers who often carry portable chargers on long trips.
Saudi Arabia Tightens Airline Safety Rules 2026
Global concerns continue to rise over lithium battery-related incidents on aircraft, the Kingdom’s aviation regulator has made clear that passenger safety is now the top priority. In recent years, a number of airlines around the world have reported power banks and electronic devices overheating, smoking, and even catching fire mid-flight. In the face of these increasing dangers, Saudi Arabia has made its new aviation regulations consistent with international safety standards prescribed by groups such as the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Power Banks Are Not Allowed In Flight
One of the major changes announced under the new policy is the prohibition of charging power banks on flights. Passengers are now prohibited from plugging power banks into aircraft USB ports or power outlets while on board. Officials have also cautioned travelers against using power banks to charge mobile phones, tablets, or other electronic devices while on the move. Authorities believe the restriction on batteries on flights will go a long way to reducing the chance of batteries overheating and causing possible fires in the cabin.
How Many Power Banks Are Allowed?
Under the new Saudi aviation rules, only two power banks are allowed to be carried by the passengers. Travelers carrying in excess of the allowed number may be delayed, have the devices confiscated, or face further airport security checks. Authorities said the rule is meant to limit the total amount of lithium batteries carried on board aircraft and to reduce the risks to safety during air travel. Several international airlines and aviation authorities around the world are already enforcing such restrictions.
Power Banks Are Prohibited in Checked Luggage
Another important change in the rules is a complete ban on placing power banks in checked luggage. Portable chargers are now only allowed in hand luggage or cabin bags for passengers. Aviation experts say lithium battery fires would be much easier to detect and control within the cabin than in the aircraft’s cargo hold. Power banks can overheat in checked bags, and the crew might not see it right away, which is more dangerous when planes are in the air.
Saudi Airports to Increase Security Checks To Improve Safety
Travelers flying through Saudi airports should expect tighter baggage checks and electronic device screening in coming weeks. Airport staff and airline officials may ask passengers to remove power banks from their bags to confirm they are following the new rules during security checks at airports. Experts said travelers who are not aware of the rules may face delays while boarding, especially during the busy Hajj and Umrah travel season when airports witness extremely high passenger traffic.
New rules will affect most pilgrims of Hajj and Umrah
The timing of these new rules is particularly important as millions of Muslim pilgrims are expected to travel to Saudi Arabia for Hajj and Umrah. Many pilgrims rely heavily on power banks to keep their phones charged on long journeys, religious rituals, and navigating around holy sites.
Now Saudi authorities are urging all pilgrims to check airline baggage rules carefully before they travel to avoid problems at the airports. Several travel agencies are also beginning to notify passengers of the new restrictions to prevent confusion and delays.
Saudi Arabia isn’t the only place getting stricter about portable chargers and lithium battery-powered devices. Airlines in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East have already introduced similar safety policies following multiple battery-related incidents in recent years. Some airlines now prohibit passengers from storing power banks in overhead compartments, and some even ban charging portable batteries on board. These steps are part of a growing international move to reduce cabin fire risks, according to aviation experts.
What Makes Lithium Batteries Dangerous on Aircraft
The lithium-ion batteries that power the inside of power banks can be very dangerous if damaged, overheated, or poorly manufactured. A lithium battery failure can enter a state called “thermal runaway.
This is where the battery rapidly increases in temperature and can explode or catch fire. Aircraft cabins are enclosed spaces, and a fire in even a small battery can quickly become a serious emergency. This is the main reason why aviation authorities around the world are now implementing stricter rules with regard to electronic devices and spare batteries on board flights.
Saudi aviation authorities have called on passengers to check the latest baggage policies of their airline before going to the airport. Some airlines may have additional restrictions on electronic devices, such as maximum battery capacity, how they must be packed, or where they may be stowed.
Travelers who fail to comply with the new guidelines may have their power banks confiscated or be denied boarding until they follow safety instructions. According to experts, electronic accessories should be packed carefully and power banks should be easily accessible inside carry-on bags.
Saudi Arabia Sends a Clear Signal on Aviation Safety
The Kingdom’s latest decision comes at a time of increased focus on enhancing international aviation standards and increasing passenger safety measures across its airports. Saudi authorities hope these tougher power bank regulations will help prevent dangerous incidents in the air and make travel experiences safer for millions of passengers every year. With global aviation regulations continuing to evolve, travelers can expect even more stringent scrutiny of electronic devices and battery-powered equipment in the future.
