AirAsia Philippines said it will strictly enforcing new guidelines set by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) on the use of portable electronic devices, particularly power bank during flights.
In CAAP’s Advisory Circular No. 18-005, the use of power banks during flights is strictly prohibited due to safety concerns associated with lithium-ion batteries.
AirAsia Philippines’ new policy still allows the carriage of not more than two power banks, each not exceeding 100 watt-hours (Wh).
Power banks must not be stored in overhead compartments and should instead be kept with guests’ personal belongings under the seat or in the seat pocket in front. Use of power bank inflight is not permitted.
“While we understand that power banks are now part of travel essentials for our guests, safety always comes first at AirAsia,” AirAsia Philippines Communications and Public Affairs Head, First Officer Steve Dailisan said.
“We highly encourage our guests to charge their electronic devices prior to boarding and ensure maximum compliance that is enforced by our highly trained on ground and inflight crew,” he aded.
AirAsia Philippines will remind guests of this policy before boarding. Passengers found using power banks onboard will receive a warning, and if still non-compliance persists, the device will be confiscated and returned upon landing.