Under the new regulations, lithium power banks are banned on all flights operated by Vietnam Airlines Group (Vietnam Airlines, Pacific Airlines, and Vasco). Passengers must declare them at check-in and place them visibly in their carry-on baggage to allow monitoring and early detection of any irregularities.
Vietnam Airlines has equipped its aircraft with fire- and smoke-proof kits, including heat-resistant gloves, to handle incidents involving lithium batteries. All crew members are trained to respond swiftly and effectively.
Lithium batteries, commonly found in personal electronic devices and power banks, are strictly prohibited from being checked baggage under international aviation safety standards due to the high risk of fire or explosion if damaged or overheated.
In recent months, several international airlines have reported cabin fires and smoke incidents caused by lithium batteries, some of which have necessitated emergency landings.
Amid stricter global controls, leading carriers, including China Airlines, Korean Air, Hong Kong Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific and Emirates, have also banned the use of lithium power banks in aircraft cabins this year.
Vietnam Airlines affirmed it will continue to closely monitor the situation, regularly assess risks, and promptly update lithium battery control measures to ensure safety.