New Power Bank and Lithium Battery Regulations for Flights in Colombia

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) updated its safety guidance in March 2026, leading to a global enforcement of new restrictions on the transport and use of lithium battery-powered power banks. These specifications are designed to safeguard international aviation by addressing the risks presented by passengers’ lithium batteries.

Airlines worldwide are now implementing a limit of two power banks per passenger. This restriction follows the updated safety framework established by the ICAO to enhance safety and peace of mind for travelers.

New Operational Restrictions

Beyond the limit on the number of devices, the new regulations introduce strict rules regarding the use of power banks during transit. In-flight charging using these portable devices is now banned.

Storage requirements have also been modified to ensure safety. Power banks must be stored within the reach of the passenger and are no longer permitted to be stored in overhead bins.

Regional and Corporate Implementation

The tightened regulations are being enforced across several nations. Passengers flying across Argentina, Colombia, Denmark, Switzerland, Qatar, Morocco, and Uruguay are subject to these updated power bank rules.

In Colombia, the Aeronáutica Civil (Aerocivil) has updated its guidelines for the transport of lithium batteries and power banks on both national and international flights. These updates specifically prohibit the use and recharging of portable batteries during flights and limit their transport.

Major airlines are also updating their internal policies to align with these safety standards. Southwest Airlines has introduced new lithium-ion battery rules for its travelers.

Avianca maintains that certain electronic items must remain in the cabin. According to the airline, external portable chargers (power banks), loose lithium batteries, and electronic cigarettes must always be carried in carry-on baggage.

Aviation Safety Context

The transition to these stricter rules is based on emerging expertise regarding the risks associated with lithium batteries. The requirement to keep power banks within reach—rather than in overhead compartments—is part of a broader effort to manage potential battery failures in the cabin.

The ICAO’s decision reflects a coordinated international effort to standardize how lithium-powered gadgets are handled across different jurisdictions and airlines to prevent aviation incidents.

• Maximum of two power banks allowed per passenger.
• Prohibition of in-flight charging.
• Requirement to store devices within reach, not in overhead bins.
• Mandatory carriage of loose lithium batteries and power banks in carry-on luggage.