Emirates Airline has announced a major change affecting passengers on all flights, prohibiting the use of power banks onboard, effective October 1, 2025.
The move comes after a safety review highlighted risks linked to lithium battery incidents in aviation.
The UAE national carrier outlined several key guidelines for passengers:
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Only one power bank under 100Wh may be carried per passenger.
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Power banks cannot be used to charge devices onboard.
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Recharging power banks using aircraft power is not allowed.
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All power banks must display capacity information.
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They must be kept in the seat pocket or under the seat, not in overhead bins.
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Power banks remain strictly prohibited in checked baggage.
Emirates noted that while all aircraft already provide in-seat charging ports, passengers are advised to fully charge devices before flying, particularly on long-haul flights.
Why power banks are banned
The airline said the ban is part of measures to address rising safety risks associated with lithium-ion and lithium-polymer batteries, which power most portable chargers. Damaged or overcharged power banks can overheat or catch fire, sometimes triggering a phenomenon known as thermal runaway.
By restricting onboard use and requiring passengers to store power banks in accessible areas, Emirates aims to ensure cabin crew can respond swiftly to any emergency.
Emirates emphasized that passenger safety remains its top priority. The airline assured travelers that in-seat charging facilities at every seat will continue to provide a convenient and safe way to keep devices powered during flights.
