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Can Your Power Bank Ignite a Fire on a Plane? Understanding the Rules and Risks of Lithium-Ion Batteries

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Virgin Australia is contemplating a revision of its rules regarding lithium batteries following a fire incident on a flight from Sydney, which was reportedly triggered by a power bank found in passenger carry-on luggage.

Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) reports that the average traveler carries at least four rechargeable lithium battery devices, which may include smartphones, laptops, and portable power banks.

If you’re curious about the regulations and the reasons lithium-ion batteries are viewed as potential flight hazards, here’s a brief summary.

Can I bring a power bank on a plane?

Yes, but the rules vary, so you should check the airline’s restrictions before your flight.

Generally, according to CASA, laptops and cameras may be included in checked luggage as long as they are completely powered off.

However, spare batteries and power banks must be carried in carry-on baggage due to risks of short-circuiting, overheating, and fires during flight.

Lithium-ion batteries exceeding 160WH are not allowed under any circumstances unless they are used as medical aids.

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Smart bags containing power banks or lithium-ion batteries are allowed, provided the battery can be removed and carried in the cabin before checking in.


Virgin Australia states that spare or loose batteries, including power banks, must solely be part of carry-on baggage and need to be kept in their original retail packaging; individual batteries should be placed in separate plastic bags, protective pouches, or have their terminals covered with tape.

Qantas advises that passengers with Apple AirPod cases and power banks containing spare or loose batteries should only store them in carry-on baggage.

The airline does not advise using or charging power banks on board for safety reasons.

Can I take a power bank on an overseas flight?

Numerous international airlines, including Thai Airways, Korean Airlines, Eva Airlines, Cathay Pacific, China Airlines, and Singapore Airlines and its budget arm Scoot, have imposed bans regarding their use on board.

If you plan to fly with an international airline, it is essential to verify their specific rules prior to traveling.

Generally, travelers are expected to keep power banks in their carry-on luggage. However, whether or not you can use them in-flight depends on the particular airline.

Is the risk of lithium battery fires significant on airplanes?

Not necessarily. Professor Neeraj Sharma, a battery specialist at the University of New South Wales, states that lithium-ion batteries contain 20 different components, some of which are liquid, making them more volatile than solid elements like electrodes and casings.

Applying pressure to a lithium-ion battery can spark “thermal runaway” (an uncontrollable temperature increase); however, battery explosions are exceedingly rare.

Sharma notes that airlines still recommend carrying batteries in baggage to minimize the risk.

He also mentions that power banks and other lithium-ion battery devices, which are less regulated than mobile phones and laptops (like electric scooters and steam devices), could pose more risks and may be made from inferior quality batteries.

Professor Amanda Ellis, head of the Department of Chemistry and Biomedical Engineering at the University of Melbourne, agrees that lithium battery fires are not particularly likely to happen on flights.


She explains that the pressure within an airplane cabin is supported by “multiple layers of casings,” preventing batteries from reaching a critical failure. However, enclosed environments can make fires particularly hazardous, especially since it’s not possible to escape the situation while in flight.

“Fires release highly toxic gases, especially in limited spaces that are far from ideal,” she remarks.

Ellis adds that lithium-ion battery fires can be challenging to extinguish, as lithium can ignite and ignite surrounding materials—high-energy substances that can sustain burning for extended periods.

“Using water to douse a lithium fire is not advisable, which could be the first instinct of someone on a plane,” she notes.

What causes lithium-ion batteries to ignite?

Lithium-ion batteries comprise ions suspended within an electrolyte solution. During charging and discharging, these ions travel back and forth across the two electrodes.

Ellis states that a common cause of battery fires is overcharging, which can lead to overheating. If a battery becomes excessively charged, it can crack, causing the highly flammable electrolyte to ignite when it contacts air.

More sophisticated lithium-battery-powered devices, like smartphones, typically include a built-in “trickle system” that prevents overcharging by incrementally adding current to the battery.

However, Ellis explains that cheaper power banks often lack this safety feature.

“Avoid charging a power bank overnight,” she advises. “Only charge it for as long as necessary. Monitor the power bank until the indicator light switches from red to green.”

Overall, Ellis reassures that if lithium batteries are used correctly and under suitable conditions, they are generally safe, and passengers need not be overly concerned while flying.

Source: www.theguardian.com

How to potentially land a plane without any formal training

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Based on a highly reliable survey by YouGov in 2023, it was found that almost half of men believe they can successfully land a plane in an emergency situation. While we respect their confidence, it is crucial to acknowledge that landing an aircraft, especially a large commercial plane, is a complex task that requires experience.

There have been instances of small aircraft being guided to land by air traffic controllers and flight instructors on the ground. Nonetheless, it is essential to remember that pilots undergo extensive training before handling any type of aircraft.

Some large planes, like the Boeing 737, are equipped with an autoland feature that enables automatic landing in low visibility conditions. Although setting up this feature involves multiple steps and understanding of cockpit instruments, some experts believe that beginners can manage it with proper assistance.

In a detailed video on his YouTube channel, 737 instructor Petter Hernfeld outlines a 20-step emergency landing procedure that even non-pilots can follow. This process involves adjusting the plane’s speed, heading, altitude, and deploying flaps and landing gear. Additionally, Hernfeld emphasizes the challenge of gaining access to a locked cockpit during an emergency.

When it comes to smaller aircraft, the odds of successfully landing increase significantly. These planes have simpler controls and are easier to handle manually. In a 2022 incident, an inexperienced BBC journalist landed a two-seater plane with guidance from an instructor during a simulated emergency scenario.

Experts suggest that flight simulator games can offer a basic understanding of the skills required to safely land an aircraft in challenging situations.

This article addresses questions like: “Could you actually land a plane in an emergency?” – Jack Childs, via email

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Likely Just a Plane: Drone Expert Recommends Calm Approach Following New Jersey Sighting

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aFirst, mysterious lights were spotted flashing across the New Jersey night sky in mid-November. These sightings then extended to New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and even as far as Louisiana, Florida, and Arizona. Eye witnesses in Virginia Beach reported seeing flying objects unlike anything they had seen before, prompting speculation and concern.

The origin and control of these flying objects remain a mystery, with many pointing towards the possibility of drones. Lawmakers like Rep. Pat Ryan and Representative Chris Smith have expressed worry about the national security implications and the sophistication of these drones.

Don’t panic, experts say

Experts in drone technology and national security are advising calmness amidst the rising concerns. They explain that the situation in New Jersey may be a result of misunderstandings, lack of concrete information, and confusion about identifying drones in the night sky.

November 2024: Drones spotted flying over Bernardsville, New Jersey

A joint statement from federal agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security, FBI, FAA, and Department of Defense, clarified that the reported sightings were a mix of legal drones, planes, helicopters, and misidentified “fake drones.”

While the flurry of drone sightings has caused some alarm, officials emphasized that there is no immediate threat to national security or public safety. They continue to investigate the matter.

Drone Panic transforms an ordinary plane into a drone

Just before Thanksgiving, reports emerged of drones hovering over northern New Jersey, creating a sense of unease in the community. This led to an increase in people observing the night sky, resulting in more drone sightings in the Northeast.

The surge in drone reports coincides with air traffic delays at nearby airports, potentially exacerbating the situation. Experts highlight the need for accurate identification of drones to prevent unnecessary panic.

December 5, 2024: Evening sky and unidentified lights near Lebanon Township, New Jersey

Loss of vision at night makes the problem worse

Poor visibility at night can lead to optical illusions in the sky, making it challenging to distinguish between drones and other aircraft. Experts caution against jumping to conclusions and urge the use of technology to verify drone sightings.

Federal agencies have deployed radar systems to detect drones, aiming to provide clarity and reassurance to the public. They emphasize that the majority of drones in the airspace are recreational or hobbyist, with only a small fraction posing potential threats.

Alleviating fear of drones

Efforts to address the drone concerns have been made by temporarily suspending drone flights in New Jersey and providing informational resources. Federal agencies are actively tracking drones and ensuring airspace safety.

Experts classify drone threats into categories of ignorance, carelessness, and criminal intent. They emphasize the importance of accurate identification and caution against overreacting to drone sightings.

How to actually spot a drone

Distinguishing between drones and planes based on their flight patterns is crucial, as drones exhibit agile movements not seen in traditional aircraft. Utilizing technology like drone scanners can aid in identifying drones accurately.

Experts recommend verifying drone sightings before reporting them to authorities, as misidentifications can lead to unnecessary panic. Understanding the characteristics and behaviors of drones is essential in mitigating public concerns.

Don’t shoot the drone

Calls to shoot down drones from public officials raise concerns about safety and legality. Experts caution against such actions, as they can pose risks to bystanders and create further complications.

The closure of airspace due to drone sightings indicates a proactive response from authorities to potential threats. Experts emphasize the need for accurate reporting and response protocols to address drone-related incidents effectively.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Is the world’s first battery-powered plane safe for landing?

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The arrival of human flight’s future was uneventful during a time of minimal flying in June 2020 when COVID-19 was rampant all over the world. Despite the empty skies, a significant development was taking place on the ground in a small aircraft.

The Slovenian-built two-seater plane was certified safe to fly by EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency). In the following years, it obtained certifications from equivalent agencies in the UK, US, and other countries. The Pipistrel Velis Electro became the world’s first fully certified electric airplane, a title it still holds today.

“This achievement showcases the growing interest and trust in electric aircraft’s reliability.” Dr. Tine Tomajic“We recently completed production of our 100th Velis Electro, a significant milestone for Pipistrel and the industry,” saidTomajic, Director of Engineering and Programs at Pipistrel.

Tomajic believes the future is already here but not equally distributed, with a focus on the development of clean aircraft. However, challenges remain regarding the alternative fuels needed for aviation and the political will required to make significant changes.

With multiple groundings behind us, could this be the turning point for green air travel, or do we still have a long way to go before achieving zero-emission flights?

Climate impacts

“Currently, aviation has a minimal impact on climate change.” Dr. Guy GluttonGratton, an associate professor at Cranfield University, is an aeronautical engineer and test pilot for experimental electric aircraft. He states that aviation contributes about 2.5% of global CO2 emissions, with growing concerns about contrail emissions potentially reaching 7%.

The industry has made progress in reducing emissions per passenger mile, but the overall emissions are still rising at a rate of 5% annually. With global air travel demand expected to double by 2040, aviation risks becoming a significant polluter unless drastic measures are taken.

To address the challenges, various alternatives are being explored, including electric aircraft like the Velis Electro for short-haul flights and hydrogen fuel cells for larger planes.

More electric planes are set to take flight following the success of the Velis Electro. Companies like Israeli Aviation, Elysian Aircraft, and Wright Electric are working on developing larger electric aircraft to meet the future demands of air travel.

Gratton, who actively tests electric planes, remains cautious about considering battery-powered planes as a complete solution to reduce aviation’s carbon footprint. He emphasizes the importance of exploring various alternative fuels to address the industry’s growing emissions.

Alternative Fuel Test Flights

How will we power net-zero flights in the future using alternative fuels like biofuels, electric fuel, electric fuel cells, and hydrogen fuel cells?

Biofuels: Biofuels could be blended with traditional jet fuel to reduce emissions, but concerns about land use and deforestation remain.

Electric Fuel: Derived from atmospheric carbon and hydrogen, electric fuel is promising but requires significant renewable energy for production.

Electric Fuel Cell: Offers zero emissions during flight, but the technology needs further development and scalability.

Hydrogen Fuel Cell: Seen as a medium-term solution for decarbonizing aviation, but requires infrastructure redesign for effective implementation.

About our experts

Dr. Tine Tomajic: Director of Engineering and Programs at Pipistrel, an expert in electric flight.

Dr. Guy Glutton: Associate professor at Cranfield University, specializing in aviation environmental sciences and experimental electric aircraft testing.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Is it possible for rounding errors in software to lead to plane crashes?

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June 4, 1996 marked the first flight of the Ariane 5 rocket, which unfortunately ended in disaster. Just forty seconds after takeoff, the rocket veered off course and exploded. This catastrophic event was caused by a small software error, where a 64-bit floating point number was converted to a 16-bit signed integer. The conversion failed because the number was greater than 32,767, the maximum value that can be represented in 16 bits. This overflow error led to the dumping of debug data into the memory area controlling the rocket’s engines, resulting in the failure of the backup computers and ultimately leading to the rocket’s loss of control and explosion.

In 2015, it was revealed that a similar overflow error could potentially cause a power outage if a Boeing 787’s generator controls were activated for 248 consecutive days, reaching the maximum value for a 32-bit signed register. However, the issue could be resolved by resetting the counters. Fortunately, the flawed software in the 737 Max did not cause a disaster like the Ariane 5 incident.

Overflow errors are similar to rounding errors, but have subtle differences. Rounding errors usually occur when a number is calculated incorrectly and stored in binary, causing small errors to accumulate and eventually lead to significant errors.

Rounding errors can affect missiles…

A well-known example of this type of mistake occurred during the Gulf War, where a Patriot missile hit barracks instead of the incoming Scud missile, resulting in casualties. This was due to rounding errors in the tracking system that accumulated and caused the missile to veer off target.

…and the train

Software bugs can have disastrous consequences, as seen in an incident in May 2019 where an experienced train driver unfamiliar with the train’s new software accidentally accelerated to 15 mph, causing a collision and derailing the train.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Astrophysicists uncover the reason behind the absence of spiral galaxies in our supergalactic plane

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Astrophysicists have discovered why spiral galaxies like the Milky Way are rare in the supergalactic plane, a dense region of our local universe. The study, led by Durham University and the University of Helsinki, used simulations on the SIBELIUS supercomputer to show that dense galaxy clusters on a plane frequently merge, transforming spiral galaxies into elliptical galaxies. The discovery is consistent with telescope observations, supports the Standard Model of the Universe, and helps explain long-standing cosmic anomalies in the distribution of galaxies.

Astrophysicists say they have found the answer to why spiral galaxies are similar to our galaxy

This image showing an elliptical galaxy (left) and a spiral galaxy (right) includes near-infrared light from the James Webb Space Telescope and ultraviolet and visible light from the Hubble Space Telescope. Credits: NASA, ESA, CSA, Rogier Windhorst (ASU), William Keel (University of Alabama), Stuart Wyithe (University of Melbourne), JWST PEARLS team, Alyssa Pagan (STScI)

Evolution of galaxies in dense star clusters

In dense galaxy clusters in supergalactic planes, galaxies frequently experience interactions and mergers with other galaxies. This transforms the spiral galaxy into an elliptical galaxy (a smooth galaxy with no obvious internal structure or spiral arms), leading to the growth of a supermassive black hole.

In contrast, away from the plane, galaxies can evolve in relative isolation, which helps maintain their spiral structure.

Innovative simulations and important discoveries

Research results will be published in a magazine natural astronomy.

The Milky Way is part of a supergalactic plane that includes several giant galaxy clusters and thousands of individual galaxies. Most of the galaxies found here are elliptical galaxies.

The research team used the SIBELIUS (Simulations Beyond the Local Universe) supercomputer simulation, which tracks the evolution of the universe over 13.8 billion years, from the beginning of the universe to the present.

Distribution of the brightest galaxies in the local universe. observed in the 2MASS survey (left panel) and reproduced in the SIBELIUS simulation (right panel). Both panels show projections in supergalactic coordinates down to about 100 megaparsecs (Mpc). The nearly vertical stripes of the sky represent the region of the sky hidden behind our Milky Way galaxy. The simulation accurately reproduces the structure seen in the local universe.Credit: Dr. Thiru Sawala

While most cosmological simulations consider random patches of the universe and cannot be directly compared to observations, SIBELIUS aims to accurately reproduce observed structures, including supergalactic planes. . The final simulation is in remarkable agreement with telescopic observations of the universe.

Contribution and significance of research

Study co-author Professor Carlos Frenk, Ogden Professor of Fundamental Physics at Durham University’s Institute of Computational Cosmology, said:

“This is rare, but not a complete anomaly. Our simulations reveal details of galaxy formation, such as the change from spirals to ellipses due to galaxy mergers.”

“Furthermore, the simulations show that the Standard Model of the Universe, which is based on the idea that most of the mass of the Universe is cold dark matter, is one of the most remarkable structures in the Universe, including the magnificent structure of which the Milky Way Galaxy forms part. This shows that the structure can be reproduced.”

The unusual separation of spiral and elliptical galaxies in the local universe has been known since the 1960s and was included in a recent list of “cosmic anomalies” compiled by renowned cosmologist and 2019 Nobel Prize winner Professor Jim Peebles. prominently mentioned.

Study lead author Dr Thiru Sawala, a postdoctoral fellow at Durham University and the University of Helsinki, said: lecture.

“Then we realized that simulations had already been completed that might contain the answer. Our research shows that the known mechanisms of galaxy evolution also work in this unique cosmic environment. Masu.”

Reference: “A distinct distribution of elliptical and disk galaxies across local superclusters as a ΛCDM prediction” by Til Sawalha, Carlos Frenk, Jens Jachet, Peter H. Johansson, and Guillem Laveau, 2023. 11 20th of the month, natural astronomy.
DOI: 10.1038/s41550-023-02130-6

The supercomputer simulations were run on the Cosmology Machine (COSMA 8) supercomputer hosted by Durham University’s Institute for Computational Cosmology on behalf of the UK’s DiRAC high-performance computing facility, and on CSC’s Mahti supercomputer in Finland. .

This research was funded by the European Research Council, the Academy of Finland, and the UK Science and Technology Facilities Council.

Source: scitechdaily.com