Is a 20000mah power bank allowed in a sq flight?

Can You Bring a 20,000mAh Power Bank on a Singapore Airlines (SQ) Flight? The Verdict: No.

Singapore Airlines (SQ) has strict regulations regarding portable chargers and lithium batteries, and carrying a 20,000mAh power bank on board presents a significant challenge. While many travelers rely on these devices, understanding the specifics of SQ’s policies is crucial to avoid delays and potential confiscation at the gate.

The key issue lies in the airline’s complete prohibition of all portable chargers and lithium batteries in checked baggage. This blanket ban aims to mitigate the risk of fire or explosion during transit.

However, the restriction extends beyond checked baggage. SQ also limits the capacity of portable chargers allowed in carry-on luggage. The airline explicitly forbids any device exceeding 160 watt-hours (Wh). This is where a 20,000mAh power bank runs into trouble.

While mAh (milliampere-hours) is a common rating for power banks, it doesn’t directly translate to Wh. The conversion requires knowledge of the power bank’s voltage. A typical power bank operates at 3.7V. Using this voltage, a simple calculation shows that a 20,000mAh power bank is likely to exceed the 160Wh limit.

Calculation Example:

20,000mAh * 3.7V = 74,000mWh = 74Wh.

While this calculation assumes a standard 3.7V, many power banks have a higher output voltage (e.g., 5V for charging devices). The actual Wh rating is usually printed on the power bank itself, or can be found in the manufacturer’s specifications. Even if the Wh rating were below 160Wh, it’s strongly recommended to err on the side of caution. SQ’s policy is unambiguous regarding the 160Wh limit.

Therefore, despite potentially falling below the 160Wh threshold based on a nominal voltage, the risk of non-compliance remains high. Bringing a 20,000mAh power bank onto an SQ flight is strongly discouraged and almost certainly will result in its confiscation.

What to do instead:

• Check the Wh rating: Before your trip, confirm the Wh rating of your power bank.
• Choose a smaller power bank: Opt for a power bank with a significantly lower capacity that is well within the 160Wh limit.
• Charge devices before your flight: Maximize the charge on your electronic devices before heading to the airport.
• Utilize airport charging stations: Many airports offer charging stations for travelers.

In short, while a 20,000mAh power bank might seem convenient, it’s simply not permissible on Singapore Airlines flights due to their strict safety regulations. Plan accordingly to avoid any inconvenience during your journey.