adopt such restrictive measures. The aviation industry's heightened caution around power banks comes after several incidents of fires caused by malfunctioning batteries. This increased caution from the aviation industry follows several incidents involving lithium-ion battery malfunctions.

Other airlines have also tightened their regulations:

• EVA Air has revised its policy from March 2025, to ensure flight safety, the use and charging of power banks and spare lithium batteries will be prohibited throughout the flight
• Air Busan even established a total ban, becoming the first company in the world to completely ban power banks
• Emirates plans to apply similar restrictions from October 2025

The risks identified

Lithium-ion batteries in power banks can present several dangers at altitude:

Overheating and thermal runaway : Pressure and temperature variations at altitude can affect the behavior of lithium-ion batteries, increasing the risk of overheating.

Spontaneous fires : Documented cases of fires caused by defective or damaged batteries have alerted global aviation authorities.

Intervention difficulties : In the event of a battery-related incident, in-flight response resources are limited, making any situation potentially critical.

Impact on passengers

Preparation before the trip

Travelers will now have to adapt their habits:

• Full charge before boarding : please be reminded to fully charge them before boarding all electronic devices
• Using the sockets on board : Most airplane seats are equipped with AC power outlets and USB (Type A) ports, allowing devices to be charged directly during the flight.
• Energy planning : Optimizing aircraft autonomy for long-haul flights

Practical consequences

This new regulation will have several implications:

For business travelers : Need to rethink the management of the autonomy of professional devices during long journeys.

For tourists : Impact on photographic and video documentation of travel, particularly important for a destination like Mauritius.

For long-haul travel : Special challenges in maintaining connectivity and entertainment during flights of more than 10 hours.

A necessary preventive measure

Security justification

Air Mauritius justifies this decision by the absolute necessity of guaranteeing the safety of its passengers and crew. The company is following the growing recommendations of international aviation authorities regarding the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries.

Compliance with international standards

This new policy places Air Mauritius in line with global regulatory trends and demonstrates the company's commitment to the highest standards of aviation safety.

Practical advice for travelers

Before departure

1. Check the capacity of your power bank and make sure it is within the authorized limits
2. Charge fully all your electronic devices before boarding
3. Prepare an easily accessible bag to store your power bank in the cabin
4. Get informed on the availability of electrical outlets in your travel class

During the flight

1. Put away immediately your power bank in a secure compartment after boarding
2. Use the available outlets to recharge your devices if necessary
3. Respect scrupulously crew instructions regarding electronic devices

Future prospects

This new Air Mauritius regulation is part of a likely shift across the entire aviation industry toward stricter restrictions on power banks. Travelers will have to adapt to these new restrictions, which, while uncomfortable, are primarily intended to ensure their safety.

Mauritius, a popular destination for tourists from around the world, has seen its national airline adopt measures that could impact travel practices to this paradise destination. Travelers will now have to anticipate these constraints in their travel planning, while keeping in mind that safety remains the top priority.

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This regulation comes into effect on September 1, 2025, for all Air Mauritius flights. Passengers are advised to consult the airline's official website for the latest updates to this policy.