Emirates Enforces New In-Flight Power Bank Rules

Emirates New Power Bank Rules on Flights from October 1, 2025

Dubai's flagship airline, Emirates, has introduced new regulations regarding the use of power banks to prevent incidents related to lithium batteries on planes. According to the new rules, using a power bank is prohibited on Emirates flights as of October 1, 2025. Passengers can still bring one power bank with them but under strict conditions. The power banks cannot be used onboard for charging devices or recharging themselves using the aircraft's electrical system.

Emirates' New Rules:

Passengers may bring only one power bank with a capacity below 100 watt-hours.

The power bank cannot be used to charge personal devices.

Charging power banks using passengers' devices is not allowed.

Accepted power banks must have their capacity information clearly indicated.

Power banks cannot be stored in overhead compartments but must be kept in bags placed by the seatback or under the seat.

Power banks are not allowed in checked luggage (as per existing rules).

Why is Emirates Implementing These Changes?

Emirates decided to introduce stricter measures regarding the use of power banks on aircraft following a safety review. In recent years, more passengers have been using power banks, leading to an increasing number of incidents involving lithium batteries in the industry. Power banks typically use lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries, which serve as portable battery packs for charging devices. The lithium ions in the batteries are suspended in an electrolyte solution and flow between two electrodes during charging and discharging. If the battery is overcharged or damaged, a phenomenon known as "thermal runaway" can develop, which is a self-reinforcing process. In this case, the rate of temperature increase accelerates, and there is insufficient capacity to dissipate the heat, which could lead to dangerous outcomes like fire, explosion, and the release of toxic gases.

Although most modern phones and other devices that use lithium batteries have internal power management systems that slowly charge the battery to avoid overcharging, less sophisticated power banks often lack such protective mechanisms, increasing the risk. From now on, Emirates will handle all power banks on board according to the new rules mentioned above.

Why Are These New Rules Important?

Emirates' new rules can significantly reduce the risks associated with power banks by prohibiting their use on the plane. Storing power banks accessibly in the cabin ensures that in the event of a fire, trained flight attendants can react quickly and effectively extinguish the fire if necessary. With these measures, the airline aims to further enhance aircraft safety while taking into account the increasing demand and prevalence of power banks in modern travel.

Emirates' steps to address safety risks associated with lithium batteries demonstrate that the airline is acting responsibly and proactively responding to industry trends and technological changes.

(Source of the article: Emirates airline press release.)