Emirates Restricts Power Banks, Bans Use Aboard Flights

Emirates has expanded its electronics restrictions by banning the use of power banks on flights and allowing only one such device per passenger. The airline cited a rising number of lithium battery-related incidents and incidents like a Batik Air flight filled with smoke from a burning power bank. Emirates customers will be permitted to carry only one power bank under specific conditions, and it cannot be used on board.

Emirates has announced a significant expansion of its electronics restrictions by banning the use of power banks on flights, effective October 1, 2025. The Dubai-based airline will allow passengers to carry one power bank under specific conditions, but it cannot be used to charge personal devices or be charged from the aircraft’s power supply. This move comes in response to a rising number of lithium battery-related incidents across the aviation industry [1].

The new rules state that passengers may carry only one power bank with a capacity below 100 Watt Hours. The device must have its capacity rating clearly marked, be stored in a seat pocket or a bag under the seat in front, and not in the overhead bin. Power banks will remain prohibited in checked baggage, in line with existing regulations [1].

Emirates cited a series of incidents, including a Batik Air flight filled with smoke from a burning power bank, as the primary reason for the ban. The airline has conducted a comprehensive safety review and aims to reduce onboard risks by prohibiting the use of power banks during flights [2].

The restrictions also follow similar measures taken by other major carriers such as Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue, and Virgin Australia, which have also experienced incidents involving power banks or mobile devices [3].

Emirates has emphasized that safety remains a core operational priority, with measures designed to protect both passengers and crew. The airline noted that some basic power banks lack protective mechanisms to prevent overcharging, increasing the risk of thermal runaway, a process where excessive heat triggers a chain reaction, potentially leading to fire or explosion [1].

By implementing these new rules, Emirates aims to mitigate the risks associated with power banks and ensure that cabin crew can quickly respond to any incidents that may occur. The airline has stressed that these changes are part of a broader effort to enhance safety and security on its flights [2].

References:
[1] https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/nri/visit/emirates-to-ban-in-flight-use-of-power-banks-from-october-1/articleshow/123182465.cms
[2] https://simpleflying.com/emirates-bans-power-banks/
[3] https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-08-08/emirates-expands-electronics-restrictions-with-power-bank-ban