Beatrice Lang
If you're hoping to charge your devices on a plane, it's important to know what type of plug you'll need. While most countries use 220V power sources, many commercial airplanes use 110V. However, the type of aircraft, airline, class, route, and aircraft version can all impact the availability and type of power outlets and USB ports. It's a good idea to check with your airline and research your specific flight to see what type of power outlets are available. Some common types of power outlets found on airplanes include AC power (usually 110V), DC power (typically 15V DC with up to 75 watts per outlet), and EmPower DC power (available on over 40 airlines but requiring an adapter). To use these outlets, you may need to bring an AC power adapter or ensure your devices are charged before boarding.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plug type | AC power |
| Voltage | 110V |
| Frequency | 60Hz |
| Max power consumption | 60W |
| Plug type | DC power |
| Voltage | 15V |
| Max power | 75W |
| Plug type | EmPower DC power |
| Voltage | 15V |
| Max power | 200W |
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What You'll Learn
- Airplane plug types vary by airline, class, route, and aircraft
- Adapters are available to connect Empower plugs to cigarette lighter receptacles
- Airplane plug types are usually 110V AC power
- Airplane outlets are designed for devices that can function with 110-240V sources
- Airplane plugs are often loose, and some adapters may not fit
Airplane plug types vary by airline, class, route, and aircraft
The type of aircraft you are flying on will also dictate the availability of power outlets and USB ports. Newer and refurbished aircraft are more likely to provide these amenities, and long-haul flights also tend to be better equipped in this regard. That said, it is worth noting that even within the same airline, different versions of aircraft can exist, and so power outlets may be absent on some flights. For example, smaller aircraft like the Bombardier CRJ-700 and Embraer ERJ-140 sometimes have outlets in premium cabins but often do not.
The power outlets on airplanes are typically 110V AC power, which can be used for phones, tablets, and computers. However, most countries use 220V power, and so you may need to bring an adapter or check if your device can function with 110V sources. Some airlines may also offer DC power, usually 15V with up to 75 watts per outlet, and EmPower DC power, which is available on over 40 airlines but requires an adapter.
It is recommended to check with your airline before your flight to confirm the availability and type of power outlets and USB ports. This can also be done through Google Flights by looking up your exact flight and checking for icons indicating power outlets and USB ports. Additionally, websites like seatguru.com can provide information on which airlines offer power sources and the types available.
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Adapters are available to connect Empower plugs to cigarette lighter receptacles
Adapters for Empower plugs are often included with most Empower power adapters. Apple previously offered an Empower MagSafe power adapter for MacBooks, which included a cigarette lighter socket adapter. This adapter could only run the computer without charging its battery, and Apple warned against plugging it into a car's cigarette lighter outlet. This product has since been discontinued.
Adapters for Empower plugs are also available for purchase at duty-free shops at airports. These shops often carry a range of electronic accessories, including adapters and chargers. It is important to note that not all aircraft have the same power outlets, and the availability of power outlets may vary depending on the airline, class, route, and aircraft type. Therefore, it is recommended to check with the airline before travelling to determine the specific power outlets and adapters required.
Additionally, some aircraft may have loose power outlets, which can be an issue when using adapters. In such cases, travellers may opt for compact adapter solutions that fit snugly into the outlet, such as the Kikkerland Travel adapter (European type C). This adapter is smaller than the standard Empower adapter and provides a secure connection to loose airplane outlets.
It is worth noting that the voltage and wattage of power outlets in aircraft should also be considered when using adapters. Most aircraft outlets provide 110V AC power, which is compatible with most electronic devices. However, some devices may require a downgrade in wattage to function properly. For example, a 96W MacBook Pro adapter can work with a 75W outlet.
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Airplane plug types are usually 110V AC power
The EmPower DC power outlet is another type of power outlet available on commercial airlines. This outlet provides 15V DC power with a maximum of 75 watts per outlet. It is similar to a cigarette lighter outlet. Adapters are required to use the EmPower outlet, and these are often sold in airport duty-free shops. Apple previously offered an EmPower MagSafe power adapter for MacBooks, but this product was discontinued.
It is important to note that the availability of power outlets and USB ports on airplanes can vary depending on the airline, aircraft type, class, and route. It is recommended to check with the airline before travelling to confirm the availability and type of power outlets on the plane.
To use an AC power outlet on a plane, passengers should bring their own AC power adapter and plug it into the socket. It is important to ensure that the device is compatible with the power source and that the plug is inserted firmly. Some airlines may provide extension cables if needed.
Additionally, it is worth considering that airplane plugs can sometimes be loose, and adapters may not fit snugly into the outlets. This is something to be aware of when planning to use power outlets on a plane.
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Airplane outlets are designed for devices that can function with 110-240V sources
Airplane outlets are designed to be compatible with a wide range of devices, accommodating the voltage standards of different countries. While most countries use a 220V power supply, airplane outlets typically provide 110V power. This discrepancy is addressed by the fact that most devices that would be plugged into an airplane outlet can function on either voltage. For example, there are no cell phones on the market that wouldn't charge on 110V.
The EmPower universal AC outlet, for example, is compatible with power plugs from over 170 countries. It is designed so that 110 V AC power is not present at the outlet until a suitable plug is inserted. This system is rated at 15 volts and is found on many commercial airlines.
However, it is important to note that not all devices will be compatible with airplane outlets. Devices with built-in transformers, such as laptop chargers, can utilise all power sources, but devices like hair dryers or kitchen blenders will not work with airplane outlets.
Additionally, the availability and type of outlets can vary depending on the airline, class, route, and aircraft. Some airlines may only offer outlets in business or first class, while others may provide them for every individual seat. It is always a good idea to check with the airline beforehand to know what to expect and to ensure you have the right adapters if needed.
Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that airplane outlets can sometimes be unreliable, with reports of outlets not working or being loose. To mitigate this, it is recommended to fully charge devices before boarding a plane and to use power-saving settings to prolong battery life.
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Airplane plugs are often loose, and some adapters may not fit
Firstly, it's important to understand that different countries and regions have different standard plug types. While some countries use Type A or Type C plugs, others may use Type G or Type I. This means that your device's plug may not directly fit into the aircraft's power outlet. In such cases, travellers often need to use plug adapters to ensure compatibility.
However, as you've mentioned, adapters may sometimes not fit properly due to the looseness of the airplane plugs. This looseness could be a result of frequent use and the resulting wear and tear. Over time, the outlet's retention mechanism may weaken, causing plugs to fit more loosely. Additionally, the high demand for in-flight charging and the constant plugging and unplugging can exacerbate this issue.
To address this problem, it's advisable to carry a reliable and well-fitting adapter. Some travellers recommend the Kikkerland Travel adapter (European Type C), which reportedly fits snugly into the outlet. While it may be bulkier than desired, it ensures a secure connection. Alternatively, you could consider using a different type of charger, such as a USB charger, if the aircraft offers USB ports.
Lastly, it's worth noting that not all aircraft or airlines provide power outlets or USB ports. Before your flight, it's recommended to check with the airline or use resources like Google Flights to determine the availability of power outlets and USB ports on your specific flight. This proactive approach can help you manage your expectations and make alternative arrangements if necessary.
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Frequently asked questions
The type of plug you need depends on the airline and aircraft you are flying with. Most aircraft have AC power outlets that supply 110V of power. However, some airlines offer DC power outlets that supply 15V of power. EmPower DC power outlets are available on over 40 airlines and require an adapter.
EmPower is a brand name that refers to three different power outlets available on commercial airlines: a 15-volt, 75-watt DC connector (EmPower Classic), a 15-volt DC connector, and a 120-volt universal connector. EmPower adapters can be purchased at duty-free shops at airports.
You can use a power adapter that plugs into the plane's AC power outlet. Alternatively, you can use a portable charger to charge your phone on a plane.
