From October 2025, Emirates Prohibits Power Bank Use in Flight

From 1 October 2025, anyone flying with Emirates will need to follow tighter guidelines on bringing and using portable power banks while on board. This update follows an in-depth review of flight safety, sparked by more and more cases of problems with lithium battery-powered devices on planes. The aim is to cut down on risks inside the cabin, while keeping these devices close enough for the crew to grab quickly if something goes wrong.

Under the new rules, passengers should note the following requirements:

• Only one power bank is allowed per passenger, with a capacity below 100 Wh.
• Using a power bank to charge other devices is not permitted.
• Charging a power bank from the aircraft’s power supply is prohibited.
• Power banks must be placed in the seat pocket or under the seat in front, not in overhead bins.
• Carrying power banks in checked luggage remains prohibited.

Instead of relying on portable chargers during the journey, travellers will now need to plan their device power more carefully. Since using power banks during the flight is off the table, it is now important to board with phones, tablets and laptops already fully charged. Not every seat is guaranteed to have a working outlet, so it makes sense for passengers to think ahead and have a charged power bank ready for when they board or after they land. Storing the power bank within reach also ensures quick crew intervention during emergencies.

This change fits into a larger shift in how airlines approach safety, guiding travellers to choose safer and more reliable options for keeping their devices powered. It may prompt airports and lounges to expand access to charging stations, reducing reliance on personal battery packs. For long journeys, it is wise for travellers to pack several small chargers approved for air travel or choose power banks under 100 Wh, with labels that are easy to read and devices kept handy for quick inspection.

With this restriction, safety clearly takes precedence over the convenience of powering devices in the air. Travellers will need to adjust by charging thoroughly before flights and taking advantage of opportunities to recharge during layovers. Although the adjustment may feel inconvenient at first, it promotes safer travel habits, encourages better use of airport facilities and reassures passengers that airlines are acting to prevent potential cabin hazards.