Vietnam to Require Power Banks in Carry-On Luggage from July 1, 2026

Starting July 1, 2026, the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) has issued a new directive governing the carriage of power banks on commercial flights. The measure has been introduced to enhance aviation safety and mitigate the risk of onboard fires caused by lithium batteries, in alignment with updated guidance from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) on the safe transport of dangerous goods by air.

Key Rules to Know

• Carry-On Only: Power banks must be carried in cabin baggage. They are no longer permitted in checked luggage under any circumstances.
• Quantity Restriction: Passengers are limited to a maximum of two (2) power banks per flight.
• Battery Capacity Limits:
  — Lithium-metal batteries: lithium content must not exceed 2 grams
  — Lithium-ion batteries: rated energy capacity must not exceed 100 Wh
  — Power banks rated between 100 Wh and 160 Wh may be transported only with prior written approval from the airline operator
  — Power banks exceeding 160 Wh are strictly prohibited
• In-Flight Restrictions: Passengers are prohibited from recharging power banks during flight or using them to charge other electronic devices while airborne.
• Visibility Requirement: Power banks must be removed from carry-on bags and kept in a visible location for the duration of the flight, rather than stowed in overhead compartments or under seats.
• Protective Packaging: To prevent short circuits, each power bank must be individually protected by one of the following methods: retained in its original retail packaging, secured with insulating tape over exposed terminals, or placed in a separate protective pouch or plastic bag.

The CAAV has directed all airlines operating in Vietnam to strengthen passenger communications ahead of the implementation date, ensuring travellers are fully informed of these requirements prior to departure.

Recommendation for Travellers: Passengers planning to fly on or after July 1, 2026 are advised to check the wattage rating of their power banks in advance, pack them accordingly in carry-on luggage, and contact their airline directly regarding any devices rated between 100–160 Wh.

Sources: 

https://en.vietnamplus.vn/air-travellers-required-to-keep-power-banks-in-carry-on-bags-from-july-post347166.vnp

https://e.vnexpress.net/news/news/traffic/vietnam-requests-air-travelers-to-keep-power-banks-in-carry-on-bags-from-july-5089621.html