Emirates to Ban Power Bank Usage on Flights from October 1, 2025 — Here’s Everything You Need to Know
Starting October 1, 2025, passengers flying with Emirates will face a new restriction on power bank usage — a safety-focused move that places the airline in line with other global carriers tightening rules on lithium battery-powered devices.
Under the new regulation, travelers will still be allowed to bring one power bank per person on board, but they will not be permitted to use it to charge their phones, tablets, or other electronics during the flight. In addition, charging the power bank itself while on board will also be banned.
The New Policy at a Glance
The updated rule, which applies on all Emirates flights worldwide, sets out several clear conditions for carrying power banks:
- One Power Bank per Passenger
Each traveler can carry only one power bank. - Capacity Limit
The device must be rated under 100 Watt Hours (Wh) — a safety threshold observed by many airlines for lithium battery devices. - Clear Labelling Required
Power banks must display their capacity rating clearly on the body. Power banks without markings or unclear labelling might be confiscated. - No Charging Onboard
Passengers will not be allowed to:
- Use power banks to charge devices
- Charge the power bank itself during the flight
- Storage Requirements
Power banks must be kept either in the seat pocket or in a small bag under the seat in front of the passenger.
Storing them in overhead bins will not be allowed to ensure quick access in case of an incident. - Prohibited in Checked Baggage
As per longstanding safety regulations, power banks remain banned in checked-in luggage. Only carry-on is permitted.
Why Is Emirates Introducing This Rule?
The decision follows a comprehensive safety review in the aviation industry that highlighted growing concerns over lithium battery-related incidents on board.
Power banks typically use lithium-ion or lithium-polymer cells — both of which can pose a fire risk if damaged or overheated. One of the biggest threats is a dangerous phenomenon called thermal runaway, where a battery overheats uncontrollably and can ignite, explode, or emit toxic smoke.
In confined aircraft cabins, even a small battery-related fire can be a major safety hazard. Several global aviation authorities and airlines have documented in-flight smoke and fire incidents linked to portable chargers and other lithium-battery devices.
By insisting that power banks remain within immediate reach rather than in the overhead compartments, Emirates ensures cabin crew can respond quickly if a device malfunctions.
How This Compares to Other Airlines
Emirates is not alone in adopting stringent measures. Many major airlines, especially in the Asia-Pacific and Middle East regions, have placed similar restrictions — including caps on capacity, carrying limits, and charging bans during flights.
However, Emirates’ outright ban on using power banks onboard — despite allowing them in hand luggage — marks a stricter stance than many competitors, likely reflecting its commitment to zero tolerance for mid-air fire risks.
Tips for Passengers
If you’re flying with Emirates after October 1, 2025, here’s how to avoid problems at the airport:
- Check Your Power Bank’s Rating: Look for the capacity label, usually printed in Wh (Watt Hours) or mAh (milliamp-hours). If not labelled, consider replacing it with a compliant one.
- Carry Only One: Bringing a second power bank may result in it being confiscated at security or during boarding.
- Fully Charge Your Devices Before Flying: Since in-flight usage of power banks won’t be allowed, make sure your electronics are topped up before boarding.
- Keep It Handy in Cabin Storage: Stow the power bank in the seat pocket or under the seat — never in the overhead bin.
- Never Pack It in Checked Baggage: This remains prohibited for safety reasons.
The Bigger Picture — Safety Takes Priority
Airline safety rules can sometimes feel restrictive to passengers, but they are based on real-world incidents and risk assessments. Lithium battery fires, while relatively rare, are taken extremely seriously in aviation because they can escalate quickly in a pressurized cabin.
By implementing this change, Emirates aims to minimize these risks, protect passengers and crew, and ensure that if an issue arises, it can be dealt with swiftly and effectively.
Starting from October 1, 2025, Emirates passengers will still be able to bring a single, compliant power bank onboard — but they will have to keep it stored and unplugged for the entire journey. Travelers should prepare in advance to comply with the new rule and avoid travel disruptions.
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