Seoul: Korean Air and its affiliated airlines have announced a ban on the use of power banks on board their flights starting Monday. This decision comes from South Korea's logistics and transportation giant, Hanjin Group, due to rising safety concerns.

According to Thai News Agency, the ban covers all airlines under Hanjin Group, including Korean Air and its subsidiaries Asiana Airlines, Jin Air, Air Busan, and Air Seoul. Passengers will no longer be allowed to charge electronic devices with power banks during flights. However, passengers can still bring power banks on board, provided they are stored in a separate bag and are easily accessible. Storing them in overhead compartments is prohibited to ensure immediate intervention in case of battery malfunction.

Hanjin Group emphasized that the ban is in place to maintain aviation safety standards, aligning with the group's core policy. The group's statement highlighted the importance of passenger cooperation to ensure a safe, reliable, and comfortable travel experience. Korean Air is committed to these principles.

Earlier in October, Eastar Jet, another South Korean low-cost airline, became the first in the country to ban power banks, followed by Jeju Air implementing a similar policy. The concerns over power banks intensified after a significant fire incident involving a backup battery on an Air Busan aircraft at Gimhae International Airport in Busan last January.