Emirates has announced a significant update to its onboard safety regulations concerning the use of power banks. Effective 1 October 2025, passengers will no longer be permitted to use power banks at any point during the flight.
While customers may still bring one power bank on board, strict new conditions apply. The revised policy is part of Emirates’ proactive approach to enhancing in-flight safety and follows a comprehensive internal review in response to growing concerns across the aviation industry.
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Key updates to Emirates’ power bank policy
- One power bank per customer is permitted, provided it is rated below 100 watt-hours (Wh).
- Power banks must not be used to charge devices during the flight.
- Charging power banks using the aircraft’s power supply is prohibited.
- Each power bank must have a clearly marked capacity rating.
- Power banks must not be stored in overhead compartments. They must be kept in the seat pocket or in a bag under the seat in front of the passenger.
- Power banks remain prohibited in checked luggage, as per existing policy.
Why the change?
The airline cites the increasing number of lithium battery-related incidents in the aviation sector as the primary driver behind the policy update. The widespread use of power banks – which typically rely on lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries – has led to an uptick in onboard safety risks, particularly incidents involving thermal runaway.
Thermal runaway is a hazardous condition in which battery cells overheat uncontrollably, potentially resulting in fire, explosion, or toxic gas release. While modern smartphones and advanced devices typically include overcharge protection systems, many power banks – especially basic models – lack such safeguards, increasing the risk of malfunction.
By restricting in-flight use and requiring accessible storage, Emirates aims to minimise potential fire hazards and ensure that, in the rare event of a battery-related incident, cabin crew can respond swiftly and effectively.
Commitment to safety
Emirates emphasized that safety is a core value and remains central to all operational decisions. These updated regulations are designed to protect both passengers and crew while maintaining the airline’s high safety standards.
The airline encourages all passengers to review the full set of battery and electronics-related policies before traveling.
