Emirates will implement a new safety regulation from October 1, 2025, banning the use of power banks during flights.
While passengers will still be allowed to carry a limited-capacity power bank onboard, using the device to charge electronics or recharge itself while in the aircraft cabin will no longer be permitted.
New in-flight rules
Under the new policy, Emirates passengers are allowed to carry one power bank with a capacity of under 100 Watt Hours. However, the device must remain unused during the flight, meaning it cannot be connected to other devices or the aircraft’s power source.
The airline has also issued the following storage and handling instructions:
Power banks must not be placed in checked baggage.
Devices must be stored in the seat pocket or under the seat, not in the overhead bin.
All power banks must clearly display capacity information.
Reason behind the change
The airline said the move follows a comprehensive safety review amid growing concerns over the risks posed by lithium battery-powered devices.
“There has been a significant growth in customers using power banks in recent years, resulting in an increasing number of lithium battery-related incidents onboard flights across the wider aviation industry,” Emirates said in a statement.
Power banks typically use lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries, which carry a risk of thermal runaway—a rapid and uncontrollable rise in temperature that can lead to fires or explosions if the battery is damaged or overcharged. Emirates highlighted that many basic power banks lack internal safety mechanisms found in more advanced electronics.
Enhanced cabin safety
By prohibiting in-flight use and ensuring power banks are stored in accessible locations, Emirates says cabin crew will be able to act quickly in the rare event of an incident.
The airline stated, “Emirates is committed to maintaining and improving levels of safety on an ongoing basis, safeguarding customers and staff at all times.”
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
