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| New power bank rules now in effect. |
Emirates airline has officially prohibited the use of power banks on all its flights, a major change for passengers that took effect October 1, 2025 . The new safety rules stop travelers from using the portable chargers to power their devices or from charging the power banks themselves during flight .
Passengers may still carry one power bank in their hand luggage, but it must have a capacity under 100 watt-hours and its rating must be clearly visible . The device cannot be used at any time while on the aircraft and must be stored in the seat pocket or in a bag under the seat, not in overhead bins .
The airline announced this policy after a full safety review found growing risks linked to lithium battery incidents across the aviation industry . Emirates said the number of these incidents has risen as more customers travel with power banks .
"Using any kind of power bank is prohibited onboard Emirates’ flights," the airline stated in its official release . While the devices are now banned from use, Emirates highlighted that all its aircraft have in-seat charging ports available for passengers . The airline still recommends that customers fully charge their electronic devices before flying, especially on longer trips .
Regulation Details for Passengers
Usage Ban Power banks cannot be used to charge devices, nor can they be charged themselves during flight .
Carry-On Allowance One power bank per passenger, under 100 watt-hours (Wh), in carry-on baggage only .
Required Label The watt-hour capacity rating must be clearly visible on the power bank .
In-Flight Storage Must be placed in the seat pocket or in a bag under the seat; overhead bin storage is forbidden .
Checked Baggage Power banks are strictly prohibited in checked luggage, continuing an existing rule .
Why Emirates Made This Change
The decision to ban power bank use stems from a proactive effort to reduce fire risks linked to lithium-ion and lithium-polymer batteries . These batteries, common in power banks, can enter a dangerous state called "thermal runaway" if they are damaged, poorly made, or overcharged .
Thermal runaway is a self-speeding reaction where heat builds up inside the battery cell faster than it can escape . This can lead to extremely high temperatures, fires, explosions, or the release of toxic gases . The risk is higher with low-cost power banks that may lack safety features like temperature controls or automatic shut-off systems .
"After a full safety review, Emirates is taking a firm and proactive stance to lower risk when it comes to power banks onboard," the airline said . Storing power banks in easy-to-reach places like seat pockets allows cabin crew to act fast if a device overheats or catches fire .
Emirates is not the first airline to limit power banks. Other major carriers, including Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, EVA Air, and AirAsia, have already set similar rules against using them in flight . This industry-wide move follows several safety incidents.
In January 2023, a power bank was believed to have caused a fire on an Air Busan Airbus A321. That incident injured 27 people and pushed the aviation sector to create stricter safety rules for batteries .
Key Advice for Emirates Passengers
To avoid problems at the airport or on the plane, travelers should take a few simple steps.
· Charge Before You Go: Fully power all your devices like phones, tablets, and laptops before you get to the airport .
· Use In-Seat Power: Once on board, use the built-in in-seat charging ports found on all Emirates aircraft to charge your devices if needed .
· Check Your Power Bank: Make sure your power bank is under 100Wh and that the rating label is clear and easy to read .
· Pack It Right: Always keep your power bank with you in your carry-on bag. Never pack it in checked luggage .
· Store It Safely: During the flight, remember to place the power bank in the pocket of the seat in front of you or in your personal bag under the seat .
Passengers who do not follow these new rules may have their power banks taken away at the gate . Emirates has made it clear that these steps are part of its main goal to keep customers and staff safe .