Low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific (CEB) has issued a reminder to all passengers regarding the proper handling and transportation of portable chargers (power banks) during flights, in compliance with regulations set by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP).
According to the airline, portable chargers (power banks) with a rated capacity of up to 100 watt-hours (Wh) are allowed to carry baggage by hand. For portable chargers (power banks) that fall between 100Wh and 160Wh, passengers must secure approval at the check-in counter prior to boarding.
In the interest of flight safety, Cebu Pacific strictly prohibits the use and charging of portable chargers (power banks) while onboard the aircraft. Passengers are advised to keep their portable chargers (power banks) with them at all times and store them either in their pockets or in the seat pocket in front of them.
| mAh to Wh Conversion | 2.5 V | 3.7 V | 5.0 V | 9.0 V | 12.0 V |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5,000 mAh | 12.5 Wh | 18.5 Wh | 25.0 Wh | 45.0 Wh | 60.0 Wh |
| 10,000 mAh | 25.0 Wh | 37.0 Wh | 50.0 Wh | 90.0 Wh | 120.0 Wh |
| 15,000 mAh | 37.5 Wh | 55.5 Wh | 75.0 Wh | 135.0 Wh | 180.0 Wh |
| 20,000 mAh | 50.0 Wh | 74.0 Wh | 100.0 Wh | 180.0 Wh | 240.0 Wh |
| 25,000 mAh | 62.5 Wh | 92.5 Wh | 125.0 Wh | 225.0 Wh | 300.0 Wh |
| 30,000 mAh | 75.0 Wh | 111.0 Wh | 150.0 Wh | 270.0 Wh | 360.0 Wh |
| 35,000 mAh | 87.5 Wh | 129.5 Wh | 175.0 Wh | 315.0 Wh | 420.0 Wh |
| 40,000 mAh | 100 Wh | 148.0 Wh | 200.0 Wh | 360.0 Wh | 480.0 Wh |
| 50,000 mAh | 125 Wh | 185.0 Wh | 250.0 Wh | 450.0 Wh | 600.0 Wh |
[ ALLOWED ONBOARD ] | [ NOT ALLOWED ONBOARD ]
The airline further emphasized that portable chargers (power banks) must not be placed in the overhead bins or stowed under the seats. These guidelines aim to prevent overheating or potential fire hazards, particularly during turbulence or unexpected movement in the cabin.
Cebu Pacific also reminded passengers to pack all spare or loose lithium batteries, including portable chargers (power banks), properly. Each battery must be individually packed to avoid short circuits. For added safety, terminals should be covered with tape or left in their original packaging. Portable chargers (power banks) should be stored in zip-lock bags, plastic containers, or protective pouches.
Passengers seeking more information about the airline’s policy on power banks may visit bit.ly/CEB-PowerbankFAQs.