Virgin and Qantas to ban power bank use

[exceladdict]

I think the problem for many people would be for those (admittedly like me) who binge social media while waiting in the lounge. You would be surprised how much battery instagram reels/tiktok uses and if you have background apps like Flighty running, which is constantly checking for new data, it adds to the battery drain.
With battery packs inevitably being banned, a USB port is essential in flight.

Exactly, and I just don't trust that I'm going to get on a 737 with a USB port that both works and provides more than 1A of current.

For me, it’s about taking responsibility for managing MY device battery levels. If I know I need to use my device after the flight, then I stop using it during the flight to save sufficient charge for arrival needs. Using my device in-flight is optional and completely my decision and 100% within my control. In my personally experience there is never a situation that I NEED to use my device in-flight to the degree that I MUST charge it during the flight. It is my responsibility manage my device charge levels during the flight and it is 100% within my ability to do that.

What's frustrating is having to change my behaviour because of some goose (or a flock of geese) made dodgy devices that are burning down houses and putting lives at risk in the air.

I've been quite content using a reliable 99.9wh power bank to charge my laptop, phone and tablet wherever I am, in flight or otherwise, as a part of my strategy to mitigate the risk of not getting the right seat in a lounge or a plane type that has appropriate charging. And it's frustrating that the days of this appear numbered.

 

[Flyerwin]

Protip - I use my MacBook Pro and/or iPad Pro as a power bank and charge devices off it when I travel. You just have to recharge them somehow lol. Having said that I do carry a spare emergency portable power bank which I hardly need to use but I’m glad it’s there when I do need power.

 

[Quickstatus]

What about those who buy online from overseas. They get sent directly to customer.

You mean Temu?

start the flight at 100% charge.

If I was in charge, I would mandate all power banks be at less than full charge before boarding. Maximum 2 bars on battery level display.

 

[flydoc]

You mean Temu?



If I was in charge, I would mandate all power banks be at less than full charge before boarding. Maximum 2 bars on battery level display.

Rationale?

 

[Beano]

Protip - I use my MacBook Pro and/or iPad Pro as a power bank and charge devices off it when I travel. You just have to recharge them somehow lol. Having said that I do carry a spare emergency portable power bank which I hardly need to use but I’m glad it’s there when I do need power.

Good point. Does an extra laptop count as a powerbank?

 

[IrishPete]

I don’t think power banks are essential items to be used on board. If people have old devices that need constant charging they should consider buying new ones, or waiting until arrival.

Penalty for non compliance would include charges under the relevant aviation legislation… endangering aircraft, failure to comply with crew member instructions, etc. Same as for someone who lights up.

Old devices often have better battery life than newer devices.

 

[Quickstatus]

Rationale?

Inconsistent quality