Emirates has announced new safety rules for power banks on its flights, with the changes taking effect on October 1, 2025. Under the updated policy, passengers may carry one power bank on board, but it must be under 100 watt-hours in capacity. The power bank may not be used to charge devices during the flight, and it cannot be charged using the aircraft’s power supply. All power banks brought aboard must display their capacity information.
Additional placement and luggage rules include:
– Power banks may not be placed in the aircraft’s overhead bins.
– They must be kept 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 remains in place).
Why Emirates is making this change
Emirates conducted a comprehensive safety review and decided to take a proactive stance to reduce risk related to lithium battery storage and use on board. There has been a rise in lithium battery-related incidents across the aviation industry as more passengers rely on power banks to stay charged on the go. Power banks, which typically use lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries, can pose serious risks if damaged or overcharged, potentially leading to thermal runaway—an uncontrolled temperature increase that can cause fires, explosions, or the release of toxic gases. While many devices have protective safeguards, some power banks lack these features, prompting stricter onboard rules.
What travelers should know
– You may bring one power bank on board as long as its capacity is under 100 Wh.
– Do not use the power bank to charge devices during the flight.
– Do not attempt to charge the power bank from the aircraft’s power supply.
– Ensure your power bank clearly states its capacity information.
– Do not place power banks in the overhead bins; keep them in the seat pocket or under the seat in front of you.
– Do not bring power banks in checked luggage; carry-on only.
Practical takeaway
For most travelers, the change preserves the convenience of powering devices on the go while enhancing safety by restricting how and where power banks are stored and used during flight. Passengers with larger or noncompliant power banks will need to adjust travel plans accordingly, as those over 100 Wh are not allowed on Emirates flights.
Overall, this safety-focused update aims to reduce risk from lithium batteries onboard while maintaining a practical approach for the vast majority of travelers who rely on power banks for connectivity during their journeys. If you’re planning to fly Emirates soon, double-check your power bank’s capacity and packing method to ensure a smooth boarding experience.