Banning Electronic Products on Flights

Mr Cai Yinzhou asked the Acting Minister for Transport (a) what criteria the does Ministry use in deciding whether to ban certain types of electronic products on flights; and (b) to what extent and how does the Ministry work with aviation authorities in other jurisdictions to determine the scope of any ban.

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) sets guidelines on the carriage and use of various electronic devices on flights, such as laptops, mobile phones and power banks. These guidelines address safety risks, such as electromagnetic interference posed by devices with transmitting capabilities and fire hazards involving lithium batteries. The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore's (CAAS') safety regulations are aligned with ICAO's guidelines. These include restrictions on the allowable capacity of lithium batteries onboard aircraft, how they must be carried and the limitations of their use during flight.

Singapore carriers are required to adhere to CAAS's regulations but may also implement stricter policies at their discretion.