EVA Air has recently made a significant announcement, informing passengers that the use of portable chargers will be prohibited on all of its flights as of March 1, 2025. This decision comes amid growing concerns within the aviation industry regarding the potential fire hazards associated with these devices, particularly due to the risk of thermal runaway - a situation where a device overheats and poses a danger of fire.

Pilotcenter.net News reports that EVA Air's current policy only restricts passengers from storing portable chargers and lithium batteries in their checked luggage, emphasizing that these items should be carried in their carry-on bags. However, in light of recent safety incidents, including a fire on an Air Busan Airbus A321, the airline has opted to implement a complete ban on the use of portable chargers and spare lithium batteries during flights.

“To improve onboard safety,” EVA Air stated, encouraging passengers to ensure their electronic devices are fully charged before boarding and to utilize the provided AC and USB charging outlets at their seats. Following suit, China Airlines has advised its passengers against using portable chargers inflight, requiring these devices to be carried on-person rather than packed in checked luggage for safety purposes. Similarly, Mandarin Airlines, a regional subsidiary of China Airlines, is enforcing identical regulations.

Meanwhile, Starlux Airlines, another major carrier in Taiwan, has prohibited the use of portable chargers since its launch in 2018. Concerns surrounding these devices containing lithium-ion batteries first emerged following a tragic incident involving a UPS Boeing 747 in Dubai back in 2010. The air cargo flight experienced an inflight fire that led to a fatal crash, later found to be caused by thermal runaway in one of the lithium-ion batteries onboard.

Further emphasizing the urgency of this issue, a notable fire incident occurred on an Air Busan flight in 2024, where a fire broke out just before takeoff. Three passengers sustained minor injuries during the evacuation, with investigations pointing towards a lithium-ion battery likely triggering the fire in one of the overhead bins.

In Europe, airlines have also begun taking precautions regarding the use of portable chargers. Ryanair, one of the continent's largest carriers, now prohibits the use of these devices onboard all its flights. As safety remains a top priority for airlines across the globe, it is crucial for passengers to adhere to these regulations and prioritize safety precautions during their travels.