Saudi Arabia's GACA Updates Regulations on Power Banks to Enhance Cabin Safety

New Safety Directives Issued

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) in Saudi Arabia has officially updated its safety regulations concerning the transportation of lithium-ion battery power banks on aircraft. This regulatory adjustment is part of a broader initiative by the authority to enhance passenger safety and reduce the risk of fire incidents within aircraft cabins.

Key Regulatory Changes

The updated guidelines focus on the safe handling and storage of portable charging devices. While specific technical thresholds may vary by airline, the core requirements mandated by GACA include:

• Power banks must be carried in carry-on baggage only and are strictly prohibited in checked luggage.
• Devices must be protected from short circuits by being placed in individual protective packaging or by taping exposed terminals.
• The capacity of the power banks must be within the limits approved by international aviation safety standards, typically measured in Watt-hours (Wh).

These measures are intended to prevent thermal runaway, a condition where a battery overheats and can potentially lead to a fire.

Commitment to Aviation Standards

GACA has emphasized that these updates are in line with global best practices for aviation safety. By enforcing stricter controls on high-energy-density devices, the authority aims to maintain the high safety standards expected within the Saudi Arabian aviation sector. Airlines operating within the Kingdom are required to communicate these changes to passengers during the booking and check-in processes.

Passenger Compliance

Travelers are strongly encouraged to check the specific policies of their airline before arriving at the airport. Failure to comply with these safety regulations may result in the confiscation of the device at security checkpoints. GACA officials have stated that these precautions are essential to ensure the safety of all passengers and crew members during flight operations.