Emirates has announced new safety regulations regarding the use of power banks on its flights, set to take effect from the 1st of October 2025. The updated rules prohibit the use of all types of power banks while onboard the aircraft.
Passengers may still carry one power bank with them, provided it meets specific conditions. The device must be rated under 100 watt hours, and its capacity rating must be clearly visible. However, it may not be used to charge personal devices or be charged using the aircraft’s power supply during the flight. Additionally, power banks must not be placed in overhead bins but stored either in the seat pocket or a bag placed under the seat in front.
Power banks remain prohibited in checked baggage, in line with existing rules.
The revised policy follows a comprehensive safety review conducted by Emirates, prompted by a notable rise in the number of passengers travelling with power banks and a corresponding increase in lithium battery-related incidents across the aviation industry.
Power banks are typically powered by lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries. These batteries operate by allowing lithium ions to travel through an electrolyte solution between electrodes as they charge and discharge. In cases where a battery is overcharged or suffers damage, it may enter a condition known as thermal runaway. This self-sustaining process leads to a rapid increase in temperature, with the potential to cause fires, explosions or the release of harmful gases.
While many modern electronic devices are equipped with safety features such as internal trickle charging systems to prevent overcharging, basic power banks may lack such protections, thereby presenting a higher risk. Emirates’ new regulations apply to all power banks regardless of design or quality.
The airline believes that by disallowing their use in flight and enforcing secure in-cabin storage, it can reduce the risk posed by potential battery failures. Keeping power banks within reach of cabin crew allows for a faster response should an emergency occur.
Emirates emphasised that safety remains a fundamental part of its operations. The airline continues to take proactive measures to protect passengers and crew while maintaining high operational safety standards.
