AirAsia Philippines reiterated its strict adherence to and enforcement of updated regulations regarding the carriage of lithium battery-powered devices, particularly power banks, following recent industry-wide observations of non-compliant devices and a recent incident at Roxas Airport. The airline emphasizes that these guidelines are crucial for ensuring the safety of all guests and crew.
To facilitate guest understanding and compliance, AirAsia Philippines highlights the following key policies for carrying power banks:
- Quantity and Capacity: Guests are permitted to carry up to five (5) power banks, with each device not exceeding 100 watt-hours (Wh). Power banks exceeding this limit (101-160 Wh, maximum of two) or quantities exceeding five (5) 100 Wh power banks require prior airline approval.
- Placement: All power banks must be carried in hand luggage only and are strictly prohibited in checked baggage.
- In-flight Use: The use of power banks during the flight is strictly forbidden. Devices must be properly stowed under the seat or in the seat pocket throughout the flight.
The reinforced reminder comes in the wake of an incident on June 24, 2025, at Roxas Airport, where an undeclared power bank with a capacity of 326 watt-hours—significantly above the airline’s allowable limit—caught fire and exploded during X-ray screening. “Guest safety begins even before takeoff. Fortunately, our updated power bank policy has helped us avoid any incidents in-flight so far, but we can’t let our guard down,” stated First Officer Steve Dailisan, AirAsia Philippines Head of Communications and Corporate Affairs. “Thankfully, no one was injured, but the device’s extreme capacity (well over 100 Wh limit) is a serious alert for air travel safety.”
First Officer Dailisan added, “AirAsia personnel immediately assisted the authorities with the disposal of the device. Safety should always be a shared responsibility among airline staff and guests. On top of our strict implementation of standard operating procedures (SOP), we continue to encourage guests to stay informed, communicate, and make honest declarations with our crew so we can keep every flight safe.”
As part of its standard operating procedures, AirAsia Philippines will continue to proactively inquire with guests about their possession of lithium battery-powered devices and assess their compliance with safety guidelines. Consistent reminders will be delivered across all guest touchpoints, including check-in counters, pre-boarding announcements, and inflight briefings, to ensure full awareness and adherence throughout the journey.
Earlier this year, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) reinforced its directives through updated safety bulletins (Advisory Circular 18-005) in response to a growing number of incidents involving lithium batteries. AirAsia Philippines is fully committed to aligning with and exceeding these regulatory requirements to maintain the highest safety standards.
Guests are strongly advised to review the latest travel advisories on AirAsia’s official channels or consult with airline staff for any clarifications before their flight.
