Vietnam Airlines bans the use of lithium backup batteries on planes

The use of lithium power banks is prohibited on all Vietnam Airlines Group flights including: Vietnam Airlines, Pacific Airlines and Vasco.

Before Vietnam Airlines , many international airlines have banned the use of lithium backup batteries on planes - Illustration: TUAN PHUNG

In a statement issued on September 9, Vietnam Airlines said that with the principle of safety being number 1, Vietnam Airlines continues to synchronously deploy many measures to strictly control the transportation of lithium backup batteries on flights, contributing to risk prevention and ensuring aviation safety standards.

Under the new regulations, the use of lithium backup batteries is prohibited on all flights of Vietnam Airlines Group (including Vietnam Airlines, Pacific Airlines and Vasco).

Passengers need to declare at the check-in counter when carrying this type of rechargeable battery in their carry-on luggage and place it in an easily visible location for easy control and timely detection of any unusual signs.

Vietnam Airlines said it has equipped the aircraft with specialized tools such as heat-insulated gloves and special fire- and smoke-proof bags to respond to incidents involving lithium batteries.

All these equipments are supplied by the world's leading reputable manufacturers and have been approved by the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam.

In addition, the entire crew is trained to handle any unusual situations quickly and effectively.

Previously, Vietnam Airlines coordinated with the Immigration Department (A08), Ministry of Public Security , to strengthen screening at major international airports such as Noi Bai and Tan Son Nhat, to improve the ability to identify and prevent risks right on the ground, minimizing risks during flight.

Lithium batteries are now commonly used in personal electronic devices and power banks. According to international aviation safety standards, this type of battery is absolutely prohibited in checked baggage due to the high risk of explosion when damaged or overheated.

Vietnam Airlines has equipped the plane with heat-insulated gloves and special fire-proof and smoke-proof bags - Photo: VNA

Recently, many international airlines have recorded incidents of fire and smoke in passenger cabins related to lithium batteries, forcing flights to make emergency landings.

Not only the aviation sector, the technology equipment industry also continuously issued warnings. On September 1, 2025, a large technology corporation had to globally recall a 20,000 mAh backup battery model due to the risk of overheating that could lead to fire and explosion.

Facing the trend of tightening management in the world, many major airlines such as China Airlines, Korean Air, Hong Kong Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Emirates… have also applied a ban on passengers using lithium backup batteries in the aircraft cabin this year.

Vietnam Airlines said it will continue to closely monitor the situation, regularly assess risks and promptly update lithium battery control measures according to recommendations from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and domestic and international aviation authorities, to ensure absolute safety for passengers and flights.

TUAN PHUNG

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/vietnam-airlines-cam-su-dung-pin-sac-du-phong-lithium-tren-may-bay-2025090911111753.htm