The rule reminder comes after a flight was forced to divert and deal with the issue10:45, 26 May 2026An EasyJet plane had to make an emergency landing in Rome over the weekend because there was a potential fire risk linked to a passenger's luggage. The captain told all 180 passengers that a restricted item in the cargo hold posed a serious danger and had to be dealt with on the ground.‌Reports suggest that a passenger had left their phone charging in their checked baggage using a power bank. It is claimed that a woman told a flight attendant the location of her power bank, prompting the aircraft to be diverted due to a possible fire risk.‌The emergency landing happened at 11.30pm on Saturday, May 23. Passengers were reportedly provided with hotel rooms, though some chose to sleep in the airport terminals, as the next EasyJet flight back to the UK wasn't available until 2pm the following day (May 24).‌On EasyJet's website, the airline sets out its regulations regarding lithium batteries, including what is classed as "prohibited". It said: "Power banks are accepted on EasyJet aircraft with a Wh rating not exceeding 160Wh for lithium batteries. Power banks are prohibited from use on EasyJet aircraft and must not be used to charge other devices."Power banks must be carried in carry-on baggage only. It is recommended that power banks be carried where they can be monitored (i.e. on your person)"‌The airline also restricts people to bringing no more than two power banks per person. All power banks "must be individually protected", according to EasyJet, such as placing them back in original retail packaging or a plastic bag.These power bank regulations apply to virtually all major airlines, including Ryanair, Jet2, TUI and British Airways. Travellers should check with their individual airline for any specific rules and requirements concerning travelling with a power bank, reports the Express.Why are power banks considered such a risk?Power banks are forbidden from use or storage in specific areas on aircraft because they contain lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are extremely combustible and can suffer "thermal runaway," a chain reaction that may cause them to overheat or ignite.‌While they aren't completely 'banned', power banks must be stored in hand luggage and cannot be used while airborne. This is because, should a battery overheat, cabin crew can quickly reach, identify, and put out the flames.Charging gadgets through them generates additional heat, increasing the fire risk. Some carriers have rules stating that power banks cannot be placed in overhead lockers and must remain visible (such as in the seatback pocket or beneath the seat ahead of you) so that passengers and crew can immediately notice if smoke or flames appear.Article continues belowYour entitlements if an aircraft is forced to make an emergency landingIf your aircraft makes an emergency landing or diversion, your entitlement to compensation, a refund, or an alternative booking depends entirely on the cause of the emergency. You are legally entitled to specific help during the delay, whatever the reason for the diversion.Regardless of whether the emergency came from an airline problem or an unforeseeable circumstance, the carrier is legally required to care for you while you wait. This includes vouchers or reimbursement for reasonable meals and beverages, hotel accommodation and transport (if delayed overnight).If your flight experiences substantial delays or is eventually cancelled, you have the right to select between alternative travel under similar conditions at the earliest opportunity or a refund. Check specific refund entitlements with your selected airline.