Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has issued a circular to all airlines operating in the kingdom’s airports, outlining updated International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) regulations on the carriage and use of power banks onboard aircraft.
The new guidelines aim to enhance passenger safety and ensure compliance with international aviation standards.
According to the statement, the updates fall under amendments to ICAO’s Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air (Doc 9284).
GACA noted that the updates prohibit recharging power banks onboard aircraft and recommend against using them to charge electronic devices during flights.
Under the new rules, passengers are restricted to carrying a maximum of two power banks each, which must be stored in carry-on baggage within the aircraft cabin. The measures are designed to enhance safety by minimizing the risk of fire hazards and ensuring compliance with international aviation standards.
The authority stated that the measures aim to enhance aviation safety requirements and curb risks associated with such devices inside aircraft cabins, in line with international aviation standards issued by ICAO.
As per the reports, the updated guidance comes as GACA continues to tighten enforcement across the aviation sector. Earlier this year, the authority reported issuing 609 violations in 2025, with financial penalties exceeding SAR13.8 million against airlines, companies, and individuals found in breach of civil aviation laws and regulations.
GACA further added that the enforcement measures reflect its commitment to transparency, improved passenger experience, and higher standards across Saudi Arabia’s air transport sector.
