The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport on Aug. 27 announced new safeguards for flight safety highlighted by the mandatory use of insulating tape and fire containment bags for portable batteries, following related regulations adopted in March. (Yonhap News)

By Margareth Theresia
Stronger regulations on the presence and use of portable batteries on flights are coming on Sept. 1.

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport on Aug. 27 announced new safeguards to supplement in-flight safety rules on such batteries adopted in March, highlighted by the required use of insulating tape and fire containment bags to store them in a plane.

Limits on the number and capacity of power banks on a flight will remain. Up to five batteries with a capacity of up to 100 Wh is permitted, while two with a capacity of 100–160 Wh are allowed with airline approval. Anything above 160 Wh is prohibited.

All power banks must be insulated and stored in the front storage pocket of a passenger seat or inside clothing. They cannot be put in overhead bins or used during the flight.

Instead of plastic bags, insulating tape will be given to travelers at check-in counters, security checkpoints, boarding gates and onboard a plane. Passengers can take their own actions to prevent short circuits by using a plastic bag or case.

Equipment to prevent accidents that portable batteries could potentially cause will also be strengthened. All domestic carriers from Sept. 1 must carry at least two fire quarantine bags.

Temperature-sensitive stickers on the doors of overhead luggage compartments will change color when if the mercury inside rises, making it easier for flight attendants and passengers to detect a potential hazard.

Next month, the ministry will continue talks on raising global safety standards for such batteries at the general assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organization in Montreal, Canada.

margareth@korea.kr