Batteries continue to be the number one item removed from checked baggage at Auckland Airport, accounting for 70% of items confiscated by Aviation Security.
As such, the airport company is urging agents to remind clients to pack any batteries, power banks, earbuds or electronic vapes in their carry-on luggage to avoid these being confiscated from checked-in bags. Some 470 batteries are still being confiscated each day at Auckland Airport by Aviation Security and CAA’s deputy ceo Aviation Security Fred Stein says batteries can overheat and catch fire, causing danger to planes and passengers. “Our priority is and always will be to keep people safe and secure when they fly. So that’s why batteries, as well as power banks, earbuds, and cigarette vapes must go in your carry-on.” The significant fire risk means batteries must be removed by Aviation Security, and all checked bags are scanned before being moved to planes, reminds AKL. See an up-to-date summary of the AvSec rules and restrictions HERE.
. . . Airlines Summary
On-line, airlines that currently have power bank and battery restrictions include Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific and Korean Air. Air New Zealand allows loose batteries in carry-on luggage if their terminals (or ends) are covered, and up to 20 spare batteries can be taken. Power banks of less than 100 watt-hours are permitted in carry-on for NZ flights. All power banks of more than 160 watt-hours are prohibited
. . . Details
From 01 Oct EK will only allow one power bank less than 100 watt-hours per passenger on board. They must be stored under the seat or in the seat pocket, with use on board prohibited. KE allows up to five 100 watt-hours banks or two banks 100-160 watt-hours per passenger. Power banks can be used to charge devices, but power banks cannot be charged themselves. These rules change often, see the latest HERE.
. . . Hair Here
Cordless hair straighteners and hair curlers also have restrictions on carriage. Only Dyson Coralle cordless straighteners are currently permitted in carry-on luggage only. See more HERE. AKL has partnered with KiwiHarvest to donate confiscated batteries to 200 charities across New Zealand, and says 95,000 batteries have been donated since Aug 2024.
