Japan’s transport ministry, MLIT, announced revised power-bank rules taking effect on April 24, 2026. Its notice sets a maximum of two power banks per person, each no greater than 160 Wh. It also instructs passengers not to recharge a power bank from aircraft power or use one to charge another device during the flight.
What should go in your cabin bag?
Start with the label on each bank. The Wh figure is its stored energy; a large USB output number in watts describes something different. A charger marketed as “100 W” is not necessarily a 100 Wh battery. Keep the bank protected against damage and short circuits.
Does a bank under 160 Wh automatically qualify?
No. A capacity ceiling does not settle every airline requirement. Check the actual operating carrier, especially above 100 Wh, and ask about approval and any combined allowance with other spare batteries. JAL’s notice confirms the April 24 changes for its flights. Do not assume that another airline uses identical wording.
Make a plan before boarding
Charge your phone and power bank before the flight. Download your boarding pass, maps and entertainment while power is available. Keep a simple backup for information you need on arrival. If your aircraft offers device charging, follow the crew’s instructions; that does not create permission to recharge the power bank itself.
What about connecting flights?
Check each operating airline and departure separately. A connection can introduce a different capacity or quantity limit. A Japan-specific announcement is not evidence of a worldwide rule for every flight.
Sources and review date
Checked on . Requirements can change. Use the official links to check your route again before departure.
