Qantas, Jetstar, Virgin ban use of popular travel gadget on board all aircraft

Qantas and Virgin Australia are banning the use of a popular portable travel device in December.

Passengers will no longer be able to charge and use portable powerbanks on board all Qantas, QantasLink, Jetstar and Virgin Australia aircraft.

The news comes after a months-long investigation by Virgin Australia into the cause of a fire that broke out in an overhead luggage compartment during a flight from Sydney to Hobart in July.

The cause was found to be an overheated powerbank and the airline announced passengers would need to keep their powerbanks with them at their seats while the investigation took place.

Virgin Australia has now ruled this interim measure to be permanent.

The new policy, affective December 1, says power banks, spare batteries and small portable electronic devices that are permitted on board must be easily accessible throughout the flight.

These items should not be stowed in the overhead locker, but must be kept under the seat in front, in the seat pocket, or on your person.

Power banks cannot be used on board. Guests will need to rely on the charging ports in the backs of some of the seats on board the aircraft (don't forget to bring your charging cable).

And powerbanks are now limited to two per person.

Powerbanks are not allowed in checked luggage - they must be taken in your carry-on.

Virgin Australia COO, Chris Snook, said: "Globally, more lithium battery-powered devices are now being carried by travellers, and while these items are generally safe when packed and handled appropriately, this move will minimise any potential risks associated with these devices. The changes to the policy will be permanent from 1 December and reflect our safety-first approach."

Qantas has also cracked down on the charging and use of powerbanks on board.

From December 15, the use and charging of power banks on board will be prohibited - including charging via an in-seat power or USB port.

Qantas customers may carry two power banks maximum.

Power banks, spare batteries and personal electronic devices (PEDs) will need to be carried with the passenger, including in the seat pocket or under the seat in front.

Aviation lawyer and director of Carter Capner Law, Peter Carter, said while it was unlikely a battery fire would disable an airliner, it could cause significant damage and put an aircraft out of service for several days.

"A battery fire could also require a diversion from its intended destination which would be very costly to the airline, which may have to foot the bill for overnight accommodation, meals and passenger disruption," he said.

"Airlines fear liability claims for passenger injuries associated with battery fires, and the damage they can cause to carry-on luggage, and they're seeking to mitigate these risks."