Emirates will ban the use of all power banks during flights from 1 October 2025, introducing new safety measures aimed at reducing risks linked to lithium battery devices.
While passengers will still be permitted to carry one power bank under specific conditions, the devices can no longer be used to charge electronics or be charged themselves while in the aircraft cabin.
The Dubai-based carrier said the decision follows a comprehensive safety review and reflects growing concerns over lithium battery-related incidents in the aviation industry.
Under the updated regulations, Emirates customers may carry one power bank rated under 100 watt hours, provided it has clear capacity labelling. However, these devices:
- Cannot be used to charge personal devices onboard.
- Cannot be charged using the aircraft’s power supply.
- Must be stored in the seat pocket or a bag under the seat, not in overhead bins.
- Remain prohibited in checked luggage.
The airline said that positioning power banks in accessible locations enables trained cabin crew to respond quickly in the rare event of a fire.
Lithium battery risks
Power banks generally use lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries, which store energy by moving lithium ions between electrodes in an electrolyte solution. While efficient, they carry inherent risks if damaged, faulty, or overcharged.
Without proper safeguards, lithium batteries can experience “thermal runaway” — a rapid, uncontrolled temperature rise that can cause fire, explosions, or the release of toxic gases.
Although many modern phones and high-quality devices have trickle-charging systems to prevent overcharging, Emirates warned that “many basic power banks may not have this safeguard,” making them more vulnerable.
Industry trend
Incidents involving lithium batteries on flights have risen in recent years alongside the surge in personal electronics. Emirates’ ban mirrors measures taken by several airlines to limit onboard charging of such devices, aiming to reduce the likelihood of mid-flight fires.
In a statement, Emirates said: “Safety is one of our core values and a cornerstone of all operations and practices. We are committed to maintaining and improving safety levels on an ongoing basis, safeguarding customers and staff at all times.”
By banning the use of power banks in the air, Emirates aims to eliminate a potential ignition source in the cabin while maintaining passengers’ ability to carry them for use after landing.
The new rules apply across all Emirates flights and are intended to standardise procedures for both passengers and crew. The airline has advised travellers to check their power bank specifications before flying to ensure compliance.
With demand for portable charging devices showing no sign of slowing, the change underscores the aviation industry’s challenge of balancing passenger convenience with operational safety.
