Emirates has introduced new safety regulations banning the use of power banks onboard all its flights, effective October 1, 2025. The airline said the move follows a comprehensive safety review into risks associated with lithium battery incidents in aviation.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Emirates confirmed that passengers will no longer be allowed to use power banks to charge their devices during flights. However, travelers may still carry one unit of up to 100Wh capacity, provided the device is stored in designated areas.
What Passengers Need to Know
- Power banks cannot be used to charge devices in flight.
- Power banks cannot be recharged using the aircraft’s power supply.
- Units must clearly display their capacity rating.
- Power banks should be stored in seat pockets or under seats, not in overhead bins.
- Power banks remain strictly prohibited in checked baggage.
The airline emphasized that all Emirates aircraft are equipped with in-seat charging facilities, but still advised customers to fully charge their devices before boarding, particularly for long-haul journeys.
Why the Change?
Emirates explained that the rapid rise in portable charger usage has been linked to a global surge in lithium battery-related incidents across the aviation industry. These incidents can involve overheating, fire, or even explosions caused by thermal runaway when batteries are damaged or overcharged.
By prohibiting their use during flights and mandating accessible storage, Emirates said cabin crew will be better positioned to act swiftly in the event of an emergency.
“Passenger safety remains our highest priority,” the airline stated, underscoring that the new policy aims to reduce risks without compromising onboard comfort, thanks to the built-in charging points available at every seat.
