Use of external battery chargers prohibited onboard

In response to an increase in aircraft cabin fire incidents across the global aviation industry involving lithium battery-powered devices, particularly power banks and portable battery chargers, Cayman Airways Limited (CAL) has implemented a new safety policy that prohibits the use or charging of these devices onboard, effective as of February 17, 2026.

Passengers may still travel with these devices, provided they comply with the following safety requirements:

Effective, the following rules apply to all passengers and crew on all domestic and international Cayman Airways flights:

• Use Prohibited: External battery chargers (power banks/power packs) may not be used or charged at any time while onboard any Cayman Airways aircraft, and must remain powered off throughout the flight.
• Proper Storage: Power banks/power packs must not be stowed in overhead compartments or in any seatback pockets. They must be kept on the passenger’s person at all times while in the cabin.
• Prohibited in Checked Baggage: These devices are strictly prohibited in checked baggage.

Cayman Airways affirms that this new policy reflects its steadfast commitment to passenger and crew safety, and is fully aligned with the Dangerous Goods Regulations of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA). With these enhanced precautions, CAL says they will continue to uphold the highest global standards to ensure the safety and peace of mind of everyone who travels with them.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 

Q. Why has Cayman Airways introduced this policy?

Cayman Airways implemented this policy in response to a rise in aircraft cabin fire incidents across the global aviation industry involving lithium battery-powered devices, such as power banks and portable chargers. This measure is part of CAL’s commitment to ensuring passenger and crew safety and is consistent with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations.

Q. What devices are affected by this policy?

This policy applies to external battery chargers, power banks, and power packs - essentially any portable lithium-ion device designed to charge other electronics (like phones or tablets). It does not apply to devices that contain built-in batteries for normal use, such as:

• Mobile phones
• Tablets
• Laptops
• Cameras

(These devices are permitted for use onboard as usual)

Q. Can I still bring a power bank on the plane?

✅ Yes, but they:

• Must remain powered off at all times,
• Cannot be used or charged onboard
• Must not be placed in overhead bins or seatback pockets
• And must remain on your person at all times (in your hand, in your pocket, etc)

Q. Can I pack a power bank in my checked luggage?

❌ No. Power banks and any spare lithium batteries are strictly prohibited in checked baggage due to fire-safety risks associated with lithium cells. They must always remain in the cabin, on your person.

Q. Why can’t I use or charge my power bank during the flight?

Charging or using a power bank onboard increases the risk of overheating or thermal runaway, which can lead to smoke, fire, or explosion in a confined cabin environment.
This precaution follows international aviation safety guidelines to minimize the risk of such incidents.

Q. Where should I keep my power bank during the flight?

Keep your power bank on your person - in a pocket, handbag, or personal item.
This allows crew members or yourself to easily detect any signs of overheating (e.g., warmth, smoke, or unusual odor).

Q. What should I do if my power bank feels hot, emits smoke, or appears damaged?

If you notice any abnormal behavior from your power bank:

• Immediately alert a flight attendant
• Do not handle or try to cool the device yourself
• Cabin crew are trained to manage battery incidents safely using fire-containment procedures

Q. Are there limits on the size or capacity of batteries I can bring?

✅ Yes. In accordance with IATA regulations, each passenger may carry:

• Up to 20 spare lithium-ion batteries rated below 100W, or
• Up to two between 100W and 160 W, with airline approval
• Most consumer power banks are under 100W and are acceptable for carriage in the cabin, provided they are not used or charged onboard.

Q. Will this policy affect connecting flights or other airlines?

Many airlines have adopted similar restrictions. However, policies may vary slightly by carrier. If you are connecting to another airline, we recommend reviewing that airline’s battery policy prior to travel.

Q. How will this policy be enforced?

• Cabin crew will make onboard announcements reminding passengers of the rule
• Ground staff and gate agents will inform passengers during check-in and boarding
• Non-compliance may result in the device being confiscated until the flight’s conclusion, or in rare cases, refusal of carriage

Q. Does this apply to flight crew and employees as well?

✅ Yes. The policy applies equally to all passengers and crew members aboard Cayman Airways aircraft.

Q. Are there charging ports in seats aboard Cayman Airways Planes?

✅ Yes, aboard the B737-8 jet fleet there are charging ports/outlets at every seat. Completed in October 2023, the installation of the charging outlets, which feature both USB-C and USB-A connections, allow passengers in economy to enjoy similar charging options as has always been available in Business Class.