Emirates Prohibits In-Flight Power Bank Usage Commencing from October 1, 2025
Starting October 1, 2025, Emirates Airlines will introduce a new policy restricting the use of power banks onboard its flights, following a series of safety concerns related to lithium battery incidents [1][2][3].
Key Updates
Under the updated rules, passengers may carry only one power bank onboard, which must have a capacity under 100 Watt Hours (Wh) and clearly displayed capacity rating information [1][4][5]. The power bank cannot be used onboard to charge personal devices, nor can the power bank itself be charged using the aircraft’s power supply [1][2].
Power banks must be stored only in the seat pocket or in a bag under the seat in front, and are not allowed in overhead bins [1][2][4]. Carrying power banks in checked luggage remains prohibited as per existing safety rules [1].
Background
These measures come after a series of lithium battery-related safety incidents in the aviation industry, including a fire caused by a power bank on an Air Busan flight in January 2025 [2]. Emirates’ changes are among the strictest globally, reflecting the airline’s strong commitment to customer and crew safety. The new rules align with actions taken by other major carriers and authorities worldwide to mitigate onboard lithium battery fire risks [2].
Exceptions and Exemptions
The policy does not apply to medical devices that require power during the flight [6]. The new policy does not affect devices that do not require charging during the flight [7]. Emirates has not announced any changes to the policy regarding the use of medical devices that require power during the flight [8].
Ongoing Policies
The existing ban on placing power banks in checked baggage remains unchanged [9]. The carried power bank cannot be used to charge devices during the flight [10]. Emirates has not announced any changes to the rule that the power bank cannot be recharged from the aircraft's power supply during the flight [11].
The new policy applies to all Emirates flights starting October 1, 2025. To stay updated on the latest news, follow Emirates on its website, Instagram, and Facebook.
[1] - [11] Refer to the bullet points provided for source references.
In light of Emirates Airlines' new policy, passengers can bring only one power bank onboard with a capacity under 100 Watt Hours, but they are not allowed to use it to charge personal devices or get it charged using the aircraft’s power supply. Instead, the power bank should be stored only in the seat pocket or in a bag under the seat in front and is not allowed in overhead bins. This policy does not apply to medical devices that require power during the flight.
