Effective October 1st, 2025, Emirates airline has enacted a policy disallowing the use of power banks during flights.
Starting from October 1, 2025, Emirates will introduce new regulations regarding the use and storage of power banks on their flights. These changes aim to improve the overall safety of Emirates flights by addressing the risk of thermal runaway in lithium batteries.
Key Changes to Power Bank Policy
Passengers will only be allowed to carry one power bank with a capacity of under 100 Watt-hours (Wh) in their carry-on luggage. However, they will not be permitted to use the power bank during the flight or charge it using the aircraft's power supply.
Storage Requirements
Power banks must meet specific storage and safety requirements. These include:
- Only one power bank under 100 Wh capacity is allowed per passenger in carry-on baggage.
- Power banks must have clear capacity rating information visible.
- Power banks cannot be used to charge any personal devices during the flight.
- Power banks cannot be charged onboard via the aircraft power supply.
- Power banks are not allowed in checked luggage (this was already an existing rule).
- Power banks must be stored either in the seat pocket or in a bag under the seat in front; they cannot be placed in overhead stowage bins.
Safety Measures
These measures have been implemented following a lithium battery safety review to reduce risks like overheating, thermal runaway, fires, explosions, and toxic gas release onboard. The accessible storage positions allow cabin crew to respond swiftly in case of battery-related incidents.
This policy aligns Emirates with other leading airlines tightening lithium battery safety rules following several incidents worldwide related to power bank fires onboard aircraft. Emirates has emphasized the importance of safety in their decision to implement these new regulations, stating that safety remains a core value for the airline.
The new regulations are part of Emirates' ongoing commitment to prioritizing safety on their flights. By minimizing the risk of fires caused by damaged or overcharged lithium batteries, Emirates aims to ensure a safer flying experience for all its passengers.
[1] Emirates Press Release
[2] BBC News: Emirates bans power banks on flights
[3] CNN: Emirates bans power banks on flights
[4] The Guardian: Emirates bans power banks on flights
[5] The New York Times: Emirates bans power banks on flights
