Seoul: The transport ministry announced on Wednesday its decision to prohibit the use of plastic bags for storing portable batteries on airplanes, introducing insulation tape as a safer alternative in an updated in-flight safety protocol for battery packs.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the revision, which will be implemented starting Monday, follows the government's introduction of a safety management scheme for portable battery packs in March. This measure was a response to an incident involving an Air Busan aircraft fire in January. Initially, plastic bags were used to prevent fires from short circuits; however, due to environmental concerns, the government decided to update the safety measure.
The new rule mandates that airlines provide insulation tape for portable batteries at various points, including check-in counters, security checkpoints, boarding gates, and inside the cabin. Furthermore, airlines will be required to equip their aircraft with fire containment bags and heat-sensitive stickers. These stickers, attached to overhead bins, will aid cabin crew and passengers in detecting rising temperatures early, enhancing safety on board.
The ministry has announced plans to conduct intensive inspections throughout the next month to ensure compliance with the revised rule by all airlines. Additionally, it is collaborating with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to reinforce global safety standards for portable batteries. This issue is expected to be a topic of discussion at the upcoming ICAO general assembly gathering in September, as stated by the ministry.