Planning a flight with Lufthansa soon? If you usually travel with a portable charger (power bank) to keep your phone or tablet running, you need to be aware of a major policy change.

Starting January 15, 2026, the Lufthansa Group (including Austrian Airlines and SWISS) has implemented stricter safety regulations regarding lithium-ion batteries. While you can still bring your power bank with you, how you use and store it has changed significantly.

Here is everything you need to know to avoid having your device confiscated or facing issues during your flight.

The New Rule: Usage is Strictly Prohibited

The most important update for 2026 is a complete ban on the active use of power banks during the flight.

• No Charging Devices: You are not allowed to use your power bank to charge your smartphone, tablet, headphones, or any other electronic device while on board.
• No Recharging the Power Bank: You must not plug your power bank into the aircraft’s USB ports or seat power outlets to recharge it.

Previously, passengers were often allowed to charge devices during the “cruise” phase of the flight. This is no longer the case on Lufthansa flights. The device must remain switched off and stowage rules must be followed strictly.

Carry-On Only: Where to Pack Your Power Bank?

Safety regulations for lithium batteries are non-negotiable. If you pack a power bank in your checked luggage (the big suitcase you drop off at the counter), it will be removed and likely destroyed.

1. Hand Luggage Only

You must carry all power banks in your carry-on baggage or on your person.

2. No Overhead Bins

Under the updated Lufthansa protocols, you should not place loose power banks in the overhead compartments.

• Correct Storage: Keep the power bank in a bag under the seat in front of you or in your pocket.
• Why? If the battery were to overheat or catch fire, cabin crew and passengers need to spot it immediately. A fire inside a closed overhead bin can grow undetected for too long.

Quantity and Power Limits (Wh)

Lufthansa enforces strict limits on how powerful your portable charger can be. These limits are measured in Watt-hours (Wh).

• Up to 100 Wh: Allowed without prior approval. You are typically limited to a maximum of 2 power banks per person.
• 100 Wh to 160 Wh: You must get airline approval before you fly.
• Over 160 Wh: Strictly forbidden on passenger aircraft.

How to Calculate Watt-hours (Wh)

Most power banks only show their capacity in milliampere-hours (mAh). If the Wh rating is not printed on the device, you must calculate it to prove it is safe to fly.

To check if your device is allowed (usually under 100 Wh), use this simple calculation:

1. Find the mAh number on your device (e.g., 20,000 mAh).
2. Divide by 1000.
3. Multiply by 3.7 (this is the standard voltage for almost all power banks).

Quick Reference Guide (at 3.7V):

Tip: If your power bank has no visible label (the text has worn off), security officers have the right to confiscate it as they cannot verify its safety.

3 Steps for a Smooth Flight

1. Charge Before You Fly: Since you cannot use your portable charger on the plane, ensure your phone is 100% charged before boarding. Use the airport charging stations while waiting at the gate.
2. Tape the Contacts: To prevent short circuits, place your power bank in a separate plastic bag or tape over the USB ports. This prevents keys or coins in your bag from causing a spark.
3. Listen to the Crew: If your device slips between the seats, do not move the seat. Call a flight attendant immediately. Crushing a lithium battery in the seat mechanism is a common cause of onboard fires.

Summary

• Can I bring a power bank? Yes, in carry-on only.
• Can I use it during the flight? No, usage is banned as of Jan 15, 2026.
• Max capacity: 100 Wh (approx. 27,000 mAh).

Travel safely and remember to keep your batteries packed correctly!