Why Emirates Bans Power Banks Onboard

Emirates' New Rule: Why the Power Bank Ban Onboard?

As of October 1, 2025, Emirates Airlines has tightened onboard security regulations by completely banning the use of power banks during flights. Although passengers can still carry one power bank with a maximum capacity of 100 watt-hours (Wh), its use or charging during the flight is prohibited.

This decision has surprised many, especially those accustomed to charging their devices on long-haul journeys. However, a deeper look into the underlying safety reasons reveals why Emirates has taken such a step—and why this could eventually become an industry standard.

What’s behind the decision?

The decision isn’t arbitrary but stems from a comprehensive safety review. An Emirates statement indicates that there has been a global increase in incidents involving lithium batteries in the aviation industry, particularly those related to power banks used by passengers.

The aim of this ban isn’t to cause inconvenience, but to minimize risks—especially in an environment where safety is paramount.

The dangers of lithium batteries

Most power banks use lithium-ion or lithium-polymer cells. These batteries have a high energy density that makes them ideal for powering portable devices but also pose potential hazards.

When overcharged, damaged, or exposed to extreme heat, these batteries can enter a state known as "thermal runaway," a self-accelerating heat reaction that can lead to fires, explosions, or the release of toxic gases.

On an airplane, in an enclosed cabin environment, this danger is multiplied, as extinguishing fires can be more challenging, and panic can have serious consequences.

Cheap devices are especially risky

Many power banks—especially the cheaper, lower-quality models—lack safety circuits to prevent overcharging or overheating. While modern smartphones have advanced energy management systems, these portable chargers often have only the most basic protections—if any.

Thus, these devices pose a significant fire hazard, particularly if misused, such as when charged in-flight and physically moved around under a seat or in a pocket.

Quick response capability

Emirates' new regulation mandates that power banks must be placed only under the seat or in the seat pocket, not in overhead bins. The reason is that the crew can quickly intervene in case of a problem.

If a device starts to smoke or heat up in an overhead compartment, it’s much harder to detect, localize, and manage in time. Near the seats, however, potential abnormalities are immediately noticeable, enabling cabin crew to promptly commence firefighting or insulation.

This is particularly crucial on an aircraft, where every second counts.

It's a global trend

Emirates isn't the only airline tightening regulations on batteries. According to a Reuters report, as early as 2024, three weekly incidents worldwide were documented involving overheating lithium batteries—more than twice the 2018 figure.

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has also warned that lithium-based power sources pose increasing risks to flight safety. Several airlines have already restricted the use or shipment of such devices, with the trend expected to continue.

What can passengers do?

For travelers, this new rule might initially seem inconvenient, especially on long-haul flights. However, it’s important to know that power banks can still be brought onboard if their capacity doesn’t exceed 100 Wh. The key is to refrain from using or charging them during the flight.

If planning a longer trip with multiple devices, consider:

Charging mobile phones and tablets before the flight,

Turning off automatic synchronization and background applications,

Switching devices to airplane mode to save power,

And avoiding turning on or moving the power bank during the flight.

Long-term significance of the decision

Given the demand for modern technology and convenience, we carry more devices on our travels. However, it’s crucial to remember that these devices—especially those not properly manufactured—can be potential hazards.

Emirates' decision isn’t just another rule to follow; it’s a warning on how rapidly aviation safety regulations evolve in response to technological advances.

Aircraft are closed systems where even minor malfunctions can trigger a chain reaction. Preventive measures, like this power bank ban, serve as guarantees of safety—even if they come with some inconvenience.

In the future, it wouldn’t be surprising if other airlines follow suit. It’s advisable to start preparing for trips now by adhering to the regulations and using only reliable, certified power banks—in the proper way and place.

(Source of the article: Emirates airline statement.)