Emirates Airlines has announced that, starting October 1, passengers will no longer be permitted to use power banks during flights under new safety regulations.
A power bank is a portable, rechargeable device primarily designed to provide power to other electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops and cameras.
In a statement on Friday, the Dubai-based carrier said the decision follows a comprehensive safety review.
The airline said the regulation is aimed at reducing the growing risks associated with lithium battery-related incidents onboard aircraft.
“Emirates customers are still permitted to carry one power bank onboard with specific conditions listed below, but the power banks may not be used while in the aircraft cabin – neither to charge devices from the power bank, nor to be charged themselves using the aircrafts’ power source,” Emirates said.
The airline highlighted the new regulations to include “customers may carry one power bank that is under 100 Watt Hours”.
“Power banks may not be used to charge any personal devices onboard. Charging a power bank using the aircraft’s power supply is not permitted,” the carrier said.
“All power banks accepted for transport must have capacity rating information available.
“Power banks may not be placed in the overhead stowage bin onboard the aircraft and must now be placed in the seat pocket or in a bag under the seat in front of you.
“Power banks are not permitted in checked luggage (existing rule).”
Emirates cited the increasing number of fire-related incidents linked to lithium batteries across the aviation industry as the main reason for the updated regulations.
“Power banks primarily utilize lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries… In the event of overcharging or damage, they may experience thermal runaway — a dangerous chain reaction that can lead to fires, explosions, or toxic gas release,” the airline added.
While modern smartphones have internal mechanisms to prevent battery overcharge, Emirates said many basic power banks lack such safeguards, heightening the risk of overheating or ignition.
By banning usage and requiring cabin-accessible storage, Emirates said it aims to ensure cabin crew can quickly respond to emergencies involving power banks.
“Safety is one of Emirates’ core values and a cornerstone of all operations and practices,” the airline added.
Emirates said it is committed to maintaining and improving levels of safety on an ongoing basis, safeguarding customers and staff at all times.
On October 2024, Emirates resumed flight operations to Nigeria.
