Regulations & Safety
Power Bank Safety on Aircraft: Lessons from the Air Busan Fire
The recent fire on an Air Busan aircraft bound for Hong Kong has reignited concerns over the safety of power banks and other lithium-ion battery devices on flights. The incident, which occurred on January 28, 2025, at Gimhae International Airport in South Korea, injured seven people and forced the evacuation of 169 passengers and crew members. The suspected cause? A power bank stowed in an overhead locker. This event has prompted Air Busan to implement stricter regulations, banning the storage of power banks in overhead bins. But is this enough to ensure passenger safety, or is it merely a reactive measure?
Power banks have become an essential travel accessory, allowing passengers to charge their devices during long flights. However, their lithium-ion batteries pose significant safety risks, including the potential for overheating, short-circuiting, and even explosions. The aviation industry has long grappled with how to manage these risks, balancing convenience with safety. The Air Busan incident underscores the urgent need for stricter global standards and enforcement to prevent similar accidents in the future.
This article delves into the details of the Air Busan incident, explores the broader implications for the aviation industry, and examines expert recommendations for mitigating the risks associated with power banks on flights. We’ll also discuss the regulatory framework governing lithium-ion batteries on aircraft and the steps airlines can take to enhance passenger safety.
The fire on the Air Busan Airbus A321 was a stark reminder of the dangers posed by lithium-ion batteries. According to local media reports, the blaze was likely caused by a power bank stored in an overhead locker. The fire broke out just before takeoff, leading to the evacuation of all passengers and crew via inflatable slides. Seven people were injured, with one passenger remaining hospitalized. The incident has prompted Air Busan to ban the storage of power banks in overhead bins, requiring passengers to keep them in zipper storage bags under their seats or in seat pockets.
This measure, while precautionary, is more restrictive than existing international practices. Warren Chim Wing-nin, deputy chairman of the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers’ aircraft division, noted that the ban is a response to the recent accident but may not be necessary for all airlines. He emphasized the importance of further risk assessments by trade groups and carriers before expanding such measures globally.
The Air Busan incident is not an isolated case. In 2023, a power bank exploded on a Scoot Airlines flight from Singapore to Taipei, injuring two passengers. These incidents highlight the need for stricter safety protocols and better enforcement of existing regulations to prevent future accidents.
“Passengers should check their power banks to ensure they are in good condition and avoid bringing old ones on board. The internal insulator or wires inside older power banks could wear down over time, which could cause a short circuit and create a fire.” – Lo Kok-keung, retired engineering professor
The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) have established guidelines for the safe transport of lithium-ion batteries on aircraft. Power banks are classified as “spare lithium batteries” and are prohibited from checked luggage. They must be carried on board, with specific restrictions based on their watt-hour (Wh) rating. For instance, power banks with a Wh rating exceeding 100Wh are subject to additional limitations.
Hong Kong carriers like Cathay Pacific Airways and HK Express allow up to 20 spare batteries under 100Wh on board, while devices between 100Wh and 160Wh are limited to two. However, the implementation and enforcement of these guidelines vary significantly between airlines and regions. The Air Busan incident has prompted calls for stricter global standards and better enforcement to ensure consistent safety measures across the industry. In response to the incident, Air Busan has implemented stricter rules regarding the storage of power banks on its flights. Other South Korean airlines, such as Eastar Jet, have also banned the storage of battery packs in overhead bins. These measures are part of a broader trend towards stricter regulation and safety protocols for portable electronic devices on flights.
Experts like Lo Kok-keung and Warren Chim Wing-nin have offered several recommendations for passengers to minimize the risks associated with power banks on flights. Passengers should ensure their power banks are in good condition and from reputable brands. Older power banks are more prone to internal wear and tear, which can lead to short circuits and fires. Passengers should also keep power banks in their possession rather than stowing them away and avoid using them during flights.
Choi In-chan, a safety expert, suggests that airlines should check for portable chargers at the check-in counter and provide passengers with plastic bags to store them. This would allow cabin crew to easily monitor the status of power banks during the flight. Additionally, airlines should keep a list of passengers with charging devices to ensure proper oversight and management.
These recommendations, if implemented, could significantly reduce the risks associated with power banks on flights. However, they also highlight the need for better education and awareness among passengers about the potential dangers of lithium-ion batteries.
The Air Busan incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks posed by power banks and other lithium-ion battery devices on aircraft. While the airline’s decision to ban the storage of power banks in overhead bins is a step in the right direction, it is not a comprehensive solution. The aviation industry must adopt stricter global standards and better enforcement of existing regulations to ensure consistent safety measures across all airlines.
Passengers also have a role to play in minimizing these risks. By following expert recommendations and being mindful of the condition and storage of their power banks, they can help prevent accidents and ensure a safer travel experience for everyone. As the use of portable electronic devices continues to grow, the industry must remain vigilant and proactive in addressing the safety challenges they present.
Question: Why are power banks banned from checked luggage? Question: What should passengers do to ensure their power banks are safe? Question: Are other airlines likely to adopt similar measures? Sources: South China Morning Post, Bangkok Post, Korea Herald, Aero News Journal, The Street
The Rising Concern Over Power Bank Safety on Aircraft
The Air Busan Incident: A Wake-Up Call
Regulatory Framework and Industry Response
Expert Recommendations for Passenger Safety
Conclusion
FAQ
Answer: Power banks are classified as “spare lithium batteries” and are prohibited from checked luggage due to the risk of overheating, short-circuiting, and explosions. They must be carried on board to allow for quick detection and handling of any issues.
Answer: Passengers should ensure their power banks are in good condition, from reputable brands, and avoid bringing old ones on board. They should also keep power banks in their possession and avoid using them during flights.
Answer: It depends on further risk assessments by trade groups and carriers. While Air Busan’s ban is a precautionary measure, other airlines may wait for more data before implementing similar restrictions.
Regulations & Safety
NJASAP Supports H.R. 7148 Enhancing FAA Funding and Aviation Safety
NJASAP applauds H.R. 7148 for securing FAA funding, staffing increases, and infrastructure upgrades to strengthen U.S. aviation safety and stability.
This article is based on an official press release from the NetJets Association of Shared Aircraft Pilots (NJASAP).
The NetJets Association of Shared Aircraft Pilots (NJASAP), the independent labor union representing more than 3,700 pilots who fly for NetJets Aviation, Inc., has issued a formal statement applauding the enactment of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026 (H.R. 7148). Signed into law by the President on February 3, 2026, the legislation secures full-year funding for the federal government, averting the operational risks associated with government shutdowns.
According to the union’s statement, the passage of H.R. 7148 represents a critical victory for the stability of the National Airspace System (NAS). NJASAP leadership highlighted that the bill not only ensures continuous operation of essential agencies but also directs significant resources toward modernizing avionics infrastructure and addressing long-standing staffing shortages at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
A primary focus of the NJASAP’s praise centers on the specific financial allocations designed to bolster the FAA’s operational capacity. The union noted that the legislation provides $13.71 billion for FAA operations, a figure intended to stabilize the agency’s day-to-day functions.
In its release, NJASAP emphasized the importance of the bill’s provisions for workforce expansion. The legislation funds the hiring of approximately 2,500 new air traffic controllers. This surge in staffing is aimed at mitigating the persistent shortages that have strained the air traffic control system, contributed to delays, and reduced safety margins across the network.
Additionally, the bill allocates resources for 54 additional aviation safety inspectors. NJASAP views these hires as essential for maintaining rigorous oversight within the industry.
Beyond operational staffing, the union highlighted the bill’s investment in physical and technological infrastructure. The Consolidated Appropriations Act allocates $4 billion to the Airport Improvement Program (AIP). According to the press release, these funds are designated for replacing aging radar systems and telecommunications infrastructure, as well as upgrading navigation and surveillance systems.
The union also drew attention to a $100 million allocation for the FAA Office of Aerospace Medicine. This funding is targeted at modernizing technology systems to reduce the backlog in pilot medical certifications, a bureaucratic bottleneck that has historically kept qualified pilots grounded for extended periods. On the policy front, NJASAP celebrated the inclusion of language explicitly prohibiting the privatization of the U.S. air traffic control system. The union has long opposed privatization efforts, arguing that the NAS must remain a public asset accountable to safety standards rather than profit motives.
Capt. Pedro Leroux, President of NJASAP, commented on the significance of the legislation in the official release:
“Congress has taken a decisive step to protect the safety and continuity of the National Airspace System by passing a full-year appropriation that prioritizes modernization, staffing and FAA readiness. As professional aviators who rely on these systems every day, we commend lawmakers for recognizing that airspace safety and stability are not optional, but are fundamental to the U.S. aviation industry.”
While the funding measures in H.R. 7148 benefit the entire aviation sector, they hold specific relevance for NetJets pilots. Unlike commercial airline pilots who primarily operate between major hubs with robust support infrastructure, fractional pilots frequently fly into a vast network of smaller, regional airports. The $4 billion investment in the Airport Improvement Program is therefore critical for maintaining safety standards at the diverse range of airfields utilized by business aviation.
Furthermore, the stability provided by a full-year appropriations bill is vital for long-term planning. Stop-gap funding measures often freeze training pipelines; by securing funding through the fiscal year, the FAA can proceed with the training of the 2,500 new controllers without interruption, a key factor in reducing system-wide congestion.
NJASAP Commends Congress on H.R. 7148 Passage, Citing Safety and Stability Wins
Strengthening FAA Operations and Staffing
Addressing the Controller Shortage
Infrastructure and Policy Protections
Aeromedical Reform and Privatization
AirPro News Analysis
Sources
Photo Credit: The NetJets Association of Shared Aircraft Pilots
Regulations & Safety
Garmin GHA 15 Height Advisor Receives FAA Approval for Certified Aircraft
Garmin’s GHA 15 Height Advisor, a radar-based altitude device, gains FAA approval for over 500 certified aircraft models, enhancing general aviation safety.
This article is based on an official press release from Garmin.
Garmin has announced that its GHA 15 Height Advisor, a radar-based altitude monitoring device, has received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval. Previously available only for the experimental market, this certification allows the installation of the device in over 500 models of Class I and Class II certified aircraft.
The approval marks a significant shift in the accessibility of radar altimetry for general aviation pilots. According to the company, the GHA 15 is available immediately at a price of $2,695. This pricing strategy positions the device as a cost-effective alternative to traditional radar altimeters, which have historically been priced significantly higher and reserved for business jets or commercial airliners.
The GHA 15 is designed to provide pilots with precise Height Above Ground Level (AGL) readings during the critical final phases of flight. While standard barometric altimeters rely on air pressure and can be subject to calibration errors or terrain variations, the GHA 15 uses radio frequency technology to measure the actual distance between the aircraft and the ground.
Garmin states that the device is capable of providing AGL data from 500 feet down to the surface. The system integrates with the Garmin GI 275 electronic flight instrument to display altitude data and generate audible callouts directly to the pilot’s headset. These callouts, such as “50 feet,” “20 feet,” and “10 feet”, are user-configurable and intended to assist pilots in judging flare height and landing timing.
“The GHA 15 provides a cost-effective solution that helps reduce pilot workload and provides confidence during the approach and landing phases of flight.”
, Garmin Press Release
The unit is a compact, all-in-one module that mounts to the underside of the aircraft fuselage. Weighing less than one pound (approximately 0.45 kg), the device is roughly the size of a deck of cards, minimizing the structural impact of installation. According to the technical details released by Garmin, the GHA 15 offers the following accuracy levels:
The FAA STC covers a broad range of single-engine and twin-engine piston aircraft (Class I and Class II). This includes popular general aviation airframes such as the Cessna 172, Piper PA-28, Beechcraft Bonanza, and Mooney M20 series. To function, the GHA 15 must be interfaced with a Garmin GI 275 electronic flight instrument. For experimental aircraft, the device remains compatible with the G3X Touch flight display.
The certification of the GHA 15 represents a notable development in the “democratization” of avionics safety features. Historically, radar altimeters (such as the Garmin GRA 55) have cost upwards of $7,000, placing them out of reach for the average private pilot. By offering a certified “Height Advisor” for under $3,000, Garmin is effectively bridging the gap between recreational flying and professional-grade situational awareness. We believe this technology will be particularly valuable in three specific scenarios:
It is important to note the distinction Garmin makes by labeling this product a “Height Advisor” rather than a TSO-certified radar altimeter. While it provides similar functionality, it is intended for advisory purposes and does not replace the higher-end equipment required for complex instrument approaches like CAT II or CAT III landings.
Sources: Garmin
Garmin GHA 15 Height Advisor Receives FAA Approval for Certified Aircraft
Bringing Radar Altimetry to General Aviation
Technical Specifications and Accuracy
Installation and Compatibility
AirPro News Analysis: The Democratization of Safety Tech
Sources
Photo Credit: Garmin
Regulations & Safety
Congress Approves $102.9B FY 2026 Transport and Housing Bill
The FY 2026 THUD Appropriations Act allocates $102.9B focusing on FAA modernization and housing assistance, rescinding CA High-Speed Rail funds.
This article is based on an official press release from the Senate Appropriations Committee and legislative summaries of the FY 2026 THUD Appropriations Act.
Following a brief partial government shutdown that spanned from January 31 to February 3, 2026, Congress has approved and President Trump has signed the Fiscal Year 2026 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies (THUD) Appropriations Act. The legislation, which provides $102.9 billion in total discretionary funding, marks a significant pivot toward stabilizing core Commercial-Aircraft infrastructure while enacting targeted cuts to specific rail initiatives.
According to the official summary released by the Senate Appropriations Committee, the bill allocates $77.3 billion to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and $25.1 billion in discretionary budget authority to the Department of Transportation (DOT). Lawmakers framed the legislation as a “back-to-basics” measure designed to address immediate Safety concerns in the national airspace and protect essential housing vouchers.
Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, emphasized the dual focus of the bill in a statement following its passage:
“It is critical that we make significant investments to modernize our air traffic control systems… We must also ensure that a greater supply of safe, affordable housing is available to communities throughout the country.”
, Senator Susan Collins (R-ME)
The Department of Transportation’s portion of the budget heavily prioritizes the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which receives $22.2 billion. This funding level reflects a consensus among lawmakers that the national airspace system requires urgent modernization following recent operational strains.
A central component of the FAA funding is a $4 billion allocation specifically for “Facilities and Equipment.” This investment is aimed at upgrading aging air traffic control (ATC) systems that have been prone to outages. Furthermore, to address chronic staffing shortages that have plagued the industry, the bill funds the hiring and training of 2,500 new air traffic controllers.
The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) reportedly endorsed the measure, describing the staffing surge as a “critical lifeline” for maintaining safety standards. Additionally, the bill provides $4 billion in Grants-in-Aid for Airports to support physical infrastructure improvements. In a move described by Republican leadership as an effort to protect taxpayers from waste, the bill permanently rescinds approximately $929 million in unobligated federal funds originally designated for the California High-Speed Rail Authority. This rescission aligns with the administration’s focus on “America First” infrastructure projects, such as the $350 million allocated for bridge repair and $200 million for commercial truck parking projects under the Federal Highway Administration.
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) received a $7 billion increase over FY 2025 levels, bringing its total to $77.3 billion. The primary goal of this funding is to maintain existing rental assistance programs and prevent a wave of evictions.
The legislation directs significant resources toward Section 8 rental assistance:
While these measures were welcomed by housing advocates, the bill maintains “flat funding” for other key programs. The Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) remain at $3.3 billion, and HOME Investment Partnerships are held at $1.25 billion. Industry groups, including the National Low Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC), have noted that without inflation adjustments, the purchasing power of these programs effectively decreases, potentially slowing the development of new affordable housing supply.
The passage of the FY 2026 THUD Appropriations Act signals a clear legislative priority: stabilization over expansion. By decoupling this bill from the contentious Department of Homeland Security debates that triggered the shutdown, Congress has acknowledged that the U.S. aviation system is too fragile to be used as a bargaining chip.
For the Airlines industry, the funding for 2,500 new controllers is a victory, but it is a long-term fix; training these controllers will take years. In the immediate term, the $4 billion for equipment modernization is the more critical figure, as it addresses the technical failures that have caused ground stops and delays. Conversely, the rescission of California High-Speed Rail funds suggests that federal support for large-scale, state-specific rail projects will face high scrutiny under the current administration, with preference given to freight efficiency (truck parking) and bridge safety.
When was the bill signed into law? Does the bill cut housing benefits? What is the impact on Amtrak? Sources: Senate Appropriations Committee, Congress.gov
Congress Passes $102.9 Billion “Back-to-Basics” Transport and Housing Bill, Ending Partial Shutdown
Aviation Safety and Infrastructure Overhaul
Modernizing Air Traffic Control
High-Speed Rail Funding Rescinded
Housing Stability and Community Development
Protecting Rental Assistance
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
The bill was signed by President Trump on February 3, 2026, effectively ending the partial government shutdown.
The bill increases funding for rental assistance vouchers to keep up with costs but flat-funds development grants like CDBG and HOME, which advocates argue is an effective cut due to inflation.
Amtrak receives $2.4 billion in total, split between the National Network ($1.6 billion) and the Northeast Corridor ($850 million).
Photo Credit: Montage
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