Singapore Airlines bans hoverboards on all flights over fears cheap batteries could explode or burst into flames

Singapore Airlines is just one of several carriers to introduce restrictions amid concerns that the low-quality lithium batteries many of the machines are powered by could explode in mid-air

Singapore Airlines has banned hoverboards on all of its aircraft (Getty)

Singapore Airlines has banned so-called 'hoverboards' on all of its aircraft, refusing even to allow passengers to check them in to the plane’s luggage hold over fears they could burst into flames.

With hoverboards expected to be a popular gift this Christmas, Singapore Airlines is just one of several carriers to introduce restrictions amid concerns that the low-quality lithium batteries many of the machines are powered by could explode in mid-air.

Similar bans were recently introduced by America’s three largest airlines – United, Delta and American Airlines - following reports of hoverboards catching fire.

In a statement, Singapore Airlines said that its luggage restrictions have always prevented batteries being taken on board if they hold more than eight grams of lithium or 160 watt hours.

While this already covers many hoverboards, as well as Segways, electric bicycles and undercover lamps, the restrictions have been updated to include all hoverboards, whatever their power supply.

Speaking to Channel News Asia, a spokesperson said: “Singapore Airlines complies strictly with International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations on the transport of dangerous goods, which includes lithium batteries."

The ban is just the latest safety warning over hoverboards. Earlier this month trading standards said a staggering 88% of the 17,000 hoverboards it had inspected were unsafe.

The watchdog raised specific concerns over the products risk of overheating, exploding and catching fire, prompting Amazon to tell its customers to throw away or demand refunds on hoverboards they had purchased via the internet retailer, according to the Daily Mail.

Tesco has already stopped selling hoverboards, while Argos is said to withdrawing items from certain manufacturers.

It is claimed that the majority hoverboards on the market in the UK and the US have been produced in bulk using low-quality materials before being rebranded and sold in the West.