EasyJet diverted flight EZY2618 from Hurghada in Egypt to London Luton to Rome on Tuesday night after a passenger told crew that a power bank was charging in the hold. The aircraft landed safely at Rome Fiumicino, and passengers were rescheduled to Wednesday.
EasyJet EZY2618
The airline said the captain decided to divert the flight “in line with safety regulations.” The plane had been airborne for almost three hours when it made a sharp left-hand turn over the Adriatic Sea and reached Rome about 20 minutes later.
EasyJet said the situation did not involve any reported problem with the portable charger itself. The issue was where it was being carried and whether it was charging, which matters because regulations do not allow power banks to be charging in the hold during a flight.
Rome Fiumicino Overnight
Passengers stayed overnight until the next day. EasyJet said the aircraft landed safely and passengers disembarked routinely, and it provided hotel accommodation and meals where available. Customers who remained in the airport were given refreshments.
For passengers heading to London Luton, the practical effect was a missed arrival on Tuesday and a delay until Wednesday. EasyJet apologised for the disruption and said its safety of passengers and crew is its highest priority.
Power Bank Rules
EasyJet says power banks are accepted on aircraft in cabin baggage only. They are prohibited from use and must not be used to charge other devices. The airline allows a maximum of two power banks per customer, with a limit of 160 Watt-hour for lithium batteries.
EasyJet also says power banks must be individually protected, such as in their original packing or a plastic bag. Ryanair says power banks are not allowed in checked baggage, while British Airways says they must not exceed 100Wh and should be stored in the seat pocket or a bag placed under the seat in front.
The International Civil Aviation Organisation introduced new restrictions for power banks in March, as airlines tighten handling rules around lithium-ion batteries. For travelers, the immediate lesson is simple: a charger in the wrong place can stop a journey that was already under way and push the rest of the trip to the next day.
