What is airline approved power bank? Regulation and product features.

When traveling by air, keeping your devices charged is essential. However, strict regulations govern the types of power banks you can bring onboard. Understanding these rules will help ensure your portable charger power bank doesn't get confiscated at security checkpoints.

TSA and FAA Guidelines for Power Banks

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have established clear guidelines for lithium battery devices:

• Carry-on only: All portable power banks must be packed in carry-on luggage, never in checked baggage
• Capacity limitations: Power banks must have a rated energy capacity under 100Wh (approximately 27,027mAh) for unrestricted carry-on
• Higher capacity approval: Power banks between 100Wh and 160Wh (approximately 27,027mAh to 43,243mAh) require airline approval before boarding
• Quantity restrictions: Only two spare batteries between 100-160Wh are permitted per passenger

Calculating Watt-hours (Wh)

To determine if your power bank complies with regulations, check the Wh rating on the device. If only mAh is listed, use this conversion formula:

Watt-hours (Wh) = Battery capacity (Ah) × Nominal voltage (V)

Note: 1Ah = 1000mAh

The crucial element in this conversion is Voltage (V), which is typically printed on the power bank itself or its packaging, usually around 3.7V for most lithium-ion batteries.

Consider common power bank capacities and their Wh equivalents (assuming a typical 3.7V internal battery voltage):

• A 10,000mAh power bank at 3.7V is approximately 37 Wh.
• A 20,000mAh power bank at 3.7V is approximately 74 Wh.
• A 27,000mAh power bank at 3.7V is approximately 99.9 Wh.

For quick reference, the following table provides common power bank capacities and their approximate Watt-hour equivalents, along with their typical airline approval status:

Table 1: mAh to Wh Conversion Chart for Common Power Bank Capacities

mAh Capacity (approx.)	Typical Voltage (V)	Calculated Wh (approx.)	Airline Approval Status	Notes
10,000 mAh	3.7V	37 Wh	Allowed (Carry-on)	Common smartphone charger capacity
20,000 mAh	3.7V	74 Wh	Allowed (Carry-on)	Charges multiple devices; well within limit
27,000 mAh	3.7V	99.9 Wh	Allowed (Carry-on)	Maximum for most cases without airline approval
30,000 mAh	3.7V	111 Wh	Airline Approval Needed (Carry-on, max 2)	Exceeds 100Wh; requires prior airline permission
40,000 mAh	3.7V	148 Wh	Airline Approval Needed (Carry-on, max 2)	Larger capacity; requires prior airline permission
50,000 mAh	3.7V	185 Wh	Prohibited	Exceeds the 160Wh limit; not allowed on passenger aircraft
Note: Always check the specific voltage printed on your power bank for the most accurate calculation.

A 25000 mAh power bank typically falls safely under the 100Wh threshold, making it an excellent choice for travelers who need significant charging capacity without airline approval complications.

Key Features of Airline-Approved Power Banks

When selecting a power bank for air travel, consider these essential features:

1.Compliant Capacity

Choose power banks with capacities under 27,027mAh (100Wh) to avoid declaration requirements. For most travelers, a 20,000-25,000mAh capacity provides an ideal balance between charging capability and regulatory compliance.

2.Fast-Charging Capabilities

Modern portable power bank chargers with PD (Power Delivery) or QC (Quick Charge) technology can significantly reduce charging times. Look for models offering 18W, 30W, or even 65W output for fast charging.

3.Multiple Device Compatibility

Premium travel power banks feature multiple ports (USB-A, USB-C) allowing simultaneous charging of several devices—ideal for travelers carrying phones, a power bank charger for tablet, and laptops.

4.Compact Design

A compact power bank that minimizes weight and size while maximizing capacity is essential for travelers with limited space. Look for streamlined designs that easily fit in carry-on bags or even pockets.

5.Safety Features

Quality power banks include multiple protection systems against overcharging, short-circuits, and temperature fluctuations—critical factors when traveling.

Table 2: Power Bank Air Travel Checklist

Item/Rule	Requirement	Notes/Why It Matters
Location	Carry-on baggage ONLY	Prohibited in checked luggage due to fire risk in cargo hold where incidents are harder to detect and extinguish
Capacity (Wh)	100 Wh or less	This covers most common consumer devices and does not require airline approval
Larger Capacity (Wh)	101-160 Wh	Limited to a maximum of two batteries per person, and requires prior airline approval
Prohibited Capacity	Over 160 Wh	Any power bank exceeding this limit is not allowed on passenger aircraft
Device Condition	No damage or recall	Damaged, defective, or recalled batteries pose severe fire risks and are strictly prohibited
In-Flight Use	No recharging on board	Recharging power banks or devices using power banks is not permitted during flight to prevent overheating
Gate-Checked Bags	Remove power bank	If your carry-on is gate-checked, remove the power bank and keep it with you in the aircraft cabin
Final Check	Verify with your airline	Airline policies can sometimes vary or be more stringent than general regulations; always confirm with your specific carrier

INIU P63-E1: A Travel-Optimized Power Solution

The INIU P63-E1 exemplifies the ideal airline-approved power bank with its 25,000mAh capacity (safely under the 27,027mAh limit). This power bank offers:

• 100W fast-charging capability for laptops and mobile devices
• Ability to charge three devices simultaneously with 2*USB-C ports & USB-A port
• Comprehensive device compatibility from earbuds to laptops
• Enhanced safety features with premium battery cells

Best of all, its revolutionary 30% smaller size means you can take this powerhouse anywhere, without the bulk!.

Final Travel Tips

1. Always verify your power bank's Wh rating before travel
2. Keep power banks in your carry-on luggage
3. Ensure your power bank displays proper certification markings
4. Consider airport security procedures and have your power bank easily accessible for screening

By selecting an appropriate airline-approved power bank, you can stay powered up throughout your journey while maintaining compliance with all aviation safety regulations.

About INIU

INIU® is a front runner in safe fast-charge technology who has provided over 38 million global users with the safest fast charging experience with wireless charging, car charging, portable and wall chargers. The decade-long R&D qualification in safe fast charging technology has given INIU the confidence to offer an industry-leading 3 years warranty. For more information, please visit iniushop.com.