Emirates Tightens Safety Rules on Power Bank Usage Onboard Flights

Emirates has announced new safety regulations restricting the use of power banks onboard its flights, effective 1 October 2025. While passengers may still carry one power bank with a capacity under 100 Watt Hours, using these devices for charging personal electronics during the flight will no longer be permitted.

The updated rules specify that passengers cannot charge devices using power banks nor recharge the power banks themselves from the aircraft’s power supply. Additionally, power banks must not be stored in overhead bins but placed either in the seat pocket or under the seat in front of the passenger. The longstanding prohibition on carrying power banks in checked luggage remains in place.

This policy change follows a comprehensive safety review amid a rising number of lithium battery-related incidents across the aviation sector linked to increased power bank usage. Power banks typically contain lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries, which, if damaged or overcharged, can undergo a dangerous process known as thermal runaway. This condition involves uncontrollable heat build-up that may cause fires, explosions, or the release of toxic gases.

Unlike many smartphones and advanced electronic devices equipped with internal safeguards to prevent overcharging, basic power banks may lack such protection, heightening safety risks. 

Emirates’ new regulations aim to mitigate these hazards by prohibiting power bank use in-flight and ensuring power banks are stored within cabin reach. This enables trained cabin crew to promptly address any incidents, should they occur.

Emirates reaffirms its commitment to safety as a fundamental priority and will continue to enhance measures to protect passengers and staff throughout its operations.

For more information, passengers are encouraged to consult Emirates’ official communications.