The United Arab Emirates’ national carrier, Emirates Airline, has announced a ban on the use of any kind of power bank during flights, with the new safety rule taking effect from October 1, 2025.
The airline announced the ban in a statement issued on Tuesday.
Reaffirming the new policy, the airline said, “Using any kind of power bank is prohibited onboard Emirates’ flights, effective from tomorrow, October 1, 2025,” as quoted by Gulf News.
The airline explained that the decision followed a comprehensive safety review that highlighted risks linked to lithium battery incidents in aviation.
“Emirates provides in seat charging on all aircraft, however, still recommends that customers fully charge their devices before flying, especially on longer duration flights,” the statement added.
According to Emirates, the updated safety measures, which apply across its entire fleet, include that passengers may carry one power bank under 100Wh.
It also means that power banks cannot be used to charge devices onboard; passengers cannot recharge power banks using the aircraft’s power supply.
Also, all power banks must display capacity rating information; power banks must be kept in the seat pocket or under the seat, not in overhead bins, and power banks remain prohibited in checked baggage.
The airline emphasized that in-seat charging ports are available on all flights, but passengers are advised to ensure their devices are fully charged before boarding, especially for long-haul journeys.
Emirates noted that the growing use of portable chargers has coincided with an increase in lithium battery-related incidents across the aviation industry.
Power banks, which typically use lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries, can pose a fire hazard if damaged or overcharged. In severe cases, thermal runaway, a chain reaction leading to overheating, can cause fires or even explosions.
By banning their use during flights and requiring them to be stored in easily accessible areas, Emirates said cabin crew will be better equipped to respond swiftly in case of an emergency.
The airline stressed that safety remains its top operational priority, noting that the new rules are designed to minimize risks and enhance passenger safety while maintaining comfort with built-in charging options at every seat.
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