Emirates Enforces Power Bank Ban for All Flight Passengers

Emirates, the prominent airline based in Dubai, has implemented a ban on power banks aboard its flights, a policy initially suggested in early 2025. As of October 1, 2025, passengers are prohibited from using any type of power bank while flying with Emirates. This decision aligns with the growing trend among airlines that have enacted similar restrictions in response to rising incidents related to fire hazards linked to power banks.

A power bank, often known as a battery pack or external power source, is a portable, rechargeable device meant to charge other electronic gadgets, such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and cameras.

Although under the new guidelines passengers are allowed to bring one power bank onboard, strict regulations apply. The power banks cannot be used to charge any devices or recharge themselves using the aircraft’s power supply during the flight.

In a statement released on September 30, 2025, Emirates reminded its travelers of the upcoming regulations, asserting, “Emirates provides in-seat charging on all aircraft; however, it is advisable for customers to fully charge their devices before flying, particularly for longer journeys.”

The new power bank rules include the following stipulations:

• Only power banks with a capacity of under 100 Watt Hours are allowed onboard.
• Using power banks to charge personal devices during the flight is prohibited.
• Charging power banks using the aircraft’s electrical outlets is not allowed.
• Power banks must have their capacity rating information clearly displayed.
• Passengers must stow power banks in their seat pockets or bags under the seat in front of them, rather than in overhead compartments.
• Power banks cannot be placed in checked luggage, per existing regulations.

Reasons Behind Emirates’ Decision

After conducting an extensive safety assessment and noting several notable incidents of overheating due to thermal runaway in power banks, Emirates has taken a decisive approach to minimize risks associated with these devices. The increasing number of travelers using power banks has led to a surge in lithium battery-related incidents within the aviation sector.

Understanding Thermal Runaway in Power Banks

Power banks typically utilize lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries, which are designed for recharging devices while on the move. These batteries contain lithium ions suspended in an electrolyte, enabling them to charge and discharge as needed.

If a battery becomes overcharged or damaged, it may enter a state known as “thermal runaway.” This process occurs when the heat generated within a battery cell surpasses its capacity to release that heat, causing a rapid temperature spike. Such a situation can lead to catastrophic events, including fires, explosions, and the emission of hazardous gases.

While most modern lithium battery-powered gadgets include an internal mechanism to prevent overcharging, many basic power banks lack these safety features, thus heightening potential risks. The new Emirates regulations apply to all power banks, regardless of brand or origin.

Emirates believes these new regulations will significantly lower the fire risks linked to power banks by forbidding their usage during flights. “Keeping power banks in accessible areas within the cabin ensures that, in the unlikely event of a fire, trained cabin crew can swiftly intervene,” the airline confidently stated.

“Safety is fundamental to Emirates and is integral to all operational practices. The airline is dedicated to continuously enhancing safety measures to protect both customers and staff,” the statement concluded.