Emirates airplanes at Dubai International Airport. ARCHIVE

Emirates passengers will no longer be able to use power banks to charge their devices during flights, with a new rule rolled out on Wednesday (October 1). “Using any kind of power bank is prohibited onboard Emirates flights, effective from October 1, 2025,” the airline said in a statement. Why Emirates banned power banks The ban follows a safety review highlighting the risks associated with lithium battery-powered devices, which have been linked to overheating, fire, and even explosions in rare cases. Emirates emphasized that the decision was made to reduce the risk of cabin incidents and to ensure passenger safety. Passengers are still permitted to carry one power bank under 100Wh capacity, but they cannot use it onboard, recharge it using the aircraft’s power supply, or store it in checked baggage. Power banks must be placed in seat pockets or under the seat, and each unit must clearly display its capacity rating. Emirates reminded passengers that every aircraft in its fleet already provides in-seat charging ports. The airline recommends travelers fully charge their devices before boarding, especially for long-haul flights. “Safety remains our top priority. These rules are designed to minimize risks while ensuring passenger comfort with charging options available at every seat,” Emirates said. ICA/Expat Media
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