Emirates Bans Use of Power Banks Onboard Flights: What it Means for Passengers
By TechOrigin
| Policy Status | Effective Date | Reason for Ban |
|---|---|---|
| Use Prohibited | October 1, 2025 | Lithium Battery Fire Risk |
Why the Ban on In-Flight Use?
The primary driver behind Emirates’ decision is passenger safety. The airline conducted a comprehensive safety review that highlighted the growing risk associated with the increased use of lithium-ion power banks in the cabin.
- Thermal Runaway Risk: If these batteries are damaged, faulty, or overcharged, they can enter a state called "thermal runaway," which can lead to fire, explosions, and the release of toxic gases inside the aircraft cabin.
- Industry Incidents: The airline noted that a significant growth in the use of portable chargers has coincided with a rise in lithium battery-related incidents across the wider aviation industry.
What are the New Power Bank Rules?
The new policy places a strict ban on usage but maintains existing rules for carriage. It is crucial for passengers to understand the difference.
What is Prohibited (Banned Use):
| Action | Status |
|---|---|
| Using a power bank to charge a phone/tablet onboard. | PROHIBITED |
| Charging a power bank using the aircraft’s power supply (USB/AC outlets). | PROHIBITED |
| Stowing a power bank in the **overhead luggage bin**. | PROHIBITED |
What is Still Permitted (Carriage):
Passengers are still permitted to carry one power bank under the following conditions:
- Capacity Limit: The power bank must be **under 100 Watt-Hours (Wh)**. The capacity rating must be clearly visible on the device.
- Quantity: Only **one** power bank is allowed per passenger.
- Location: It must be carried in your **hand luggage** and stored in the **seat pocket or in a bag under the seat in front of you**.
Impact on Passengers: Be Prepared
The inability to use a personal power bank means passengers must adjust their charging strategy, especially on long-haul flights. Emirates provides in-seat charging on all aircraft, but the power bank must remain switched **OFF** for the entire journey.
| Scenario | Solution / Impact |
|---|---|
| Long Flights | Charge devices to 100% before boarding. Rely only on the in-seat charging ports for top-ups. |
| Device Charging | Devices must be charged using the **in-seat power ports** provided by the aircraft. |
Emirates strongly recommends that all customers fully charge their personal electronic devices and their power bank before heading to the airport.
Conclusion
Emirates' new policy is a firm, safety-first stance designed to protect passengers from the documented risks of lithium-ion battery fires. For travelers, this means your power bank is now only a means of transport for power, not a source of power once you are airborne.
