IATA’s revised passenger guidance confirms that power banks are treated as spare lithium batteries, not ordinary electronics. They must be carried in cabin baggage, remain subject to watt-hour limits and possible airline approval rules, and require more careful handling because aviation safety policies distinguish spare batteries from batteries installed in equipment.

IATA’s 2026 dangerous goods update cycle places stronger emphasis on how passengers carry and use power banks in the cabin. Power banks remain classified as spare lithium batteries and must stay in cabin baggage, while updated guidance also highlights in-flight charging behavior, device accessibility, and airline-level safety controls related to lithium battery risks.

In March 2026, USB-IF released an updated USB Power Delivery Compliance Test Specification for chargers, cables, controllers, and end devices. The update strengthens the testing basis for protocol validation, interoperability, and certification readiness across the USB-C fast-charging ecosystem.

On 1 January 2026, IATA issued Addendum 1 to the 67th Edition of the Dangerous Goods Regulations, reinforcing updated battery air cargo compliance requirements. The addendum matters because lithium battery shipments must follow the latest rule language on packing instructions, documentation, UN 38.3 testing, and the expanded 30% state-of-charge restrictions affecting certain batteries packed with equipment.