Emirates is informing passengers that using power banks will not be permitted on any of its flights, starting from October 1, 2025. Although passengers are still allowed to bring along one power bank in certain circumstances, the airline has once again made it clear that the gadgets should never be used at all on the plane.
This is a reminder before the establishment of new safety regulations by Emirates, initially announced in the first half of the year, which are meant to help reduce risks when using lithium battery-running devices. Emirates reported that charging in-seat is still available in all its aircraft, yet passengers are requested to charge their devices before boarding, particularly on long-haul flights.
The airline explains that the decision comes after a thorough safety examination following an increase in the number of incidents involving lithium batteries in the aviation sector. Power banks may put people at risk of fire in case they are damaged, manufactured poorly, or overcharged, especially those that use lithium-ion or lithium-polymer cells.
Emirates reiterated that the move to ban their use onboard is precautionary to facilitate quick reaction in case of battery malfunction or fire outbreak in the event of an extremely infrequent incident. However, having the devices available, but not used, so that cabin crew can promptly respond in the event of necessity.
