In a move prioritizing passenger safety, Emirates has announced that the use of power banks during flights will be strictly prohibited from October 1, 2025.
New Safety Regulations for Power Banks Onboard
While passengers will still be allowed to carry one power bank with them in the cabin, Emirates has laid out clear restrictions:
Only one power bank per customer is permitted, with a maximum capacity of under 100 Watt Hours (Wh).
Power banks cannot be used to charge any personal devices onboard.
Charging power banks using the aircraft’s onboard power outlets is strictly forbidden.
All power banks must display their capacity rating clearly.
Power banks must be stored in accessible locations—either in a seat pocket or a bag under the seat in front.
Placing power banks in overhead compartments or checked luggage remains prohibited.
Why Emirates Is Taking Action
The airline’s decision is based on a growing number of safety incidents related to lithium battery-powered devices, particularly power banks. These portable charging units typically use lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries—technologies known for their energy density but also their vulnerability to thermal runaway when damaged, overcharged, or poorly designed.
Thermal runaway is a chain reaction that results in rapid, uncontrollable heat buildup, potentially causing fires, explosions, or the release of toxic gases. While most smartphones and advanced battery systems include internal mechanisms to prevent overcharging, many low-cost or unregulated power banks do not, significantly raising the risk of inflight hazards.
Enhanced Safety, Quicker Emergency Response
By banning the in-flight use and charging of power banks and requiring that they remain within easy reach, Emirates aims to minimize the risk and ensure swift action can be taken by trained cabin crew in the rare event of a battery-related fire.
Emirates Reinforces Its Commitment to Passenger Safety
“Safety is one of Emirates’ core values, and a cornerstone of all operations and practices,” the airline shared in a statement in the release, adding, “Emirates is committed to maintaining and improving levels of safety on an ongoing basis, safeguarding customers and staff at all times.”
