A recent incident on board an Latam aircraft, which had to divert its route after a power bank exploded, has once again highlighted the risks associated with transporting electronic batteries on flights. The episode, which occurred on a Thursday (29) in January, when the plane was traveling from São Paulo (SP) to
This event is not isolated, adding to other recorded cases that raise an alert regarding air safety regulations. Agência Nacional of Aviação Civil (Anac) has specific regulations for the handling and transport of these devices, aiming to minimize potential dangers. Awareness of these guidelines is essential to ensure the safety of all passengers and crew during travel.
Regulation and safety in air transport
Agência Nacional of Aviação Civil (Anac) establishes clear limits for the transport of portable chargers, external batteries and power banks. Essas guidelines are crucial for flight safety, considering the characteristics of lithium ion batteries, widely used in these devices. The main restriction lies in checked baggage, where it is strictly prohibited to include any of these items.
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In contrast, carry-on luggage is permitted, as long as capacity limits and protection rules are respected. Baterias of up to 100 Wh are released without additional restrictions. Para those with a capacity between 100 Wh and 160
Why can lithium batteries explode?
Incidents with lithium ion batteries, present in a wide range of electronics such as cell phones, notebooks and power banks, are considered rare. Contrariamente To common sense, the probability of an explosion does not increase inside an airplane. Kim Rieffel, vice-president of Telecomunicações of Associação Brasileira of Infraestrutura of
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The main triggers of these events are factors such as high temperatures and physical shocks, such as falls. Essas conditions can disrupt the battery’s internal power system, leading to short circuits which, in turn, can result in explosions. The battery capacity has a direct influence on the intensity of a possible fire, not on its probability, meaning that the greater the energy stored, the more difficult it may be to control the fire.
The importance of Anatel approval for devices
Choosing portable chargers and other electronic devices approved by Anatel is a crucial preventive measure, as highlighted by experts. Aparelhos that have not passed the regulatory agency’s approval screenings tend to present a significantly higher risk of failures, including explosions. Fábio Delatore, teacher of Engenharia Elétrica of Instituto Mauá of Isso means that the constituent parts of the powerbank, for example, may not meet minimum quality and reliability standards. Assim, the recommendation is to always prioritize products from reliable manufacturers and maintain a skeptical stance when faced with excessively cheap offers, which may signal a lack of compliance with essential safety standards.
Previous incidents with portable chargers on aircraft
The recent occurrence on the Latam aircraft does not constitute an isolated event, with records of similar situations in previous years reinforcing the need for constant vigilance. In August 2025, a portable charger combusted during a flight between São Paulo and Amsterdã, filling the cabin with smoke and causing tense moments.
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Another relevant case occurred in October 2025, when an Air China flight, which was on the route from Hangzhou to Seul, was the scene of a fire caused by the explosion of a lithium battery. The crew, trained for such emergencies, managed to control the situation quickly, avoiding injuries.
Previously, in March 2025, passengers on a flight in Hong Kong witnessed a cell phone charger catch fire inside the cabin. The prompt action of those present, using water to help contain the flames, was essential to ensure that no one suffered injuries.
Recommendations for passengers to avoid risks
To minimize the risks associated with carrying power banks and other lithium-ion batteries when traveling by air, passengers must follow some essential recommendations. Primeiramente, it is imperative to consult the airline’s and Anac’s updated guidelines before any flight as regulations can be adjusted and need to be understood.
Additionally, prioritize the purchase of electronic devices, including power banks and cell phones, that have Anatel approval. Esta certification is an indication that the product meets the required safety standards. Evite purchase products that are very cheap or of dubious origin, as they may not meet the necessary specifications and increase the risk of incidents.