Korean Air and Asiana Also Restrict Storing Portable Chargers in Overhead Bins on Flights

Strengthened Rules Including Seat Pocket Storage Guidance
Government and Airline Industry Discuss Effective Regulatory Measures

Since the fire incident involving an Air Busan passenger plane at Gimhae International Airport last month, domestic airlines have been strengthening their in-flight storage rules for small electronic devices such as portable batteries. Although the exact cause of the fire has not been determined, it is presumed that the fire started from a portable battery inside the overhead compartment luggage, raising awareness about safety.

On the afternoon of the 3rd, a notice about prohibited checked baggage items is displayed on a screen near the check-in counters at the Departure Hall of Terminal 1, Incheon International Airport. Photo by Yonhap News

According to the aviation industry on the 5th, Air Busan will, starting from the 7th, check for the presence of portable batteries in carry-on luggage at the boarding gate and attach stickers or tags as part of the 'In-flight Fire Risk Minimization Measures.' Only luggage with this marking can be stored in the overhead compartments. During reservation, ticketing, and boarding procedures, passengers will be required to agree to the prohibition of storing portable batteries in the overhead compartments.

Korean Air plans to strengthen passenger guidance to store portable batteries and battery-embedded products in the seat pockets. They are also considering providing transparent zipper bags on board to hold portable batteries. Additionally, they will discuss further measures with related agencies to prevent storing portable batteries in overhead compartments and enhance crew training on in-flight fire response.

Asiana Airlines has been encouraging passengers since the 4th not to store portable batteries in the overhead compartments through in-flight announcements. The related announcement, previously made once after boarding, will be increased to three times, and additional guidance has been added at airport counters. All aircraft will be equipped with dedicated battery fire extinguishing equipment.

Other low-cost carriers (LCCs) besides Air Busan have also strengthened guidance on carrying portable batteries directly. Furthermore, T'way Air and Eastar Jet advise passengers to individually pack portable batteries in zipper bags or apply insulating tape to battery terminals and USB ports to prevent short circuits.

However, there are criticisms that these airline measures lack enforceability and thus have limited effectiveness. In response, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport is discussing with the aviation industry effective ways to regulate the in-flight use of portable batteries. Specific details are expected to be included in the 'Aviation Safety Innovation Plan' that the ministry will announce in April.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.