Emirates Tightens Power Bank Rules from October 2025 to Boost Flight Safety
Starting 1 October 2025, Emirates will enforce stricter regulations on the carriage and use of power banks aboard its flights, a move that signals growing concern over lithium battery safety in aviation. While passengers will still be allowed to bring one power bank on board, the airline is banning their use during the flight entirely. This means no charging of devices from power banks, nor recharging the power banks themselves using the aircraft’s power supply.
The new rules specify that only one power bank per passenger is permitted, and it must have a capacity of less than 100 Watt Hours (Wh). Importantly, power banks cannot be stored in overhead bins as before; instead, they must be kept within easy reach—either in the seat pocket or in a bag under the seat in front of the passenger. The longstanding prohibition on placing power banks in checked luggage remains in effect.
Emirates’ decision follows a thorough safety review prompted by a surge in the use of power banks among travelers and a corresponding rise in lithium battery-related incidents across the aviation sector. Power banks typically contain lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries, which function by shuttling lithium ions through an electrolyte between electrodes during charging and discharging cycles.
However, these batteries carry inherent risks. If overcharged or physically damaged, they can enter a hazardous state known as thermal runaway. This is a self-accelerating process where the battery generates heat faster than it can dissipate, causing a rapid temperature spike that may lead to fires, explosions, and the release of toxic gases. While many modern smartphones and advanced devices include internal safeguards to prevent overcharging, many basic power banks lack such protections, increasing the danger.
By banning the use of power banks during flights, Emirates aims to significantly reduce the risk of onboard fires linked to these devices. The requirement to keep power banks in accessible locations within the cabin is a deliberate safety measure, ensuring that cabin crew can quickly detect and respond to any incidents. This proactive stance reflects a broader industry trend as airlines worldwide grapple with the challenges posed by lithium battery technology.
For Africa’s travel sector, this development underscores the importance of staying abreast of evolving airline safety protocols, especially as long-haul flights and electronic device usage continue to grow. Travel professionals should prepare to advise clients accordingly, emphasizing compliance with these new rules to avoid disruptions and ensure smooth journeys.
Emirates’ move aligns with similar policies adopted by other major carriers, such as Singapore Airlines and Etihad Airways, which have also restricted power bank use onboard to mitigate fire risks. This collective shift highlights the aviation industry’s increasing vigilance around lithium battery safety, a critical concern given the confined environment of aircraft cabins and the potential severity of battery-related incidents.
As the African aviation market expands and more passengers rely on portable electronic devices during flights, understanding these safety measures becomes essential. Airlines are balancing passenger convenience with the imperative to safeguard lives and aircraft integrity. The new Emirates regulations serve as a reminder that while technology enhances travel experiences, it also demands responsible management to prevent hazards.
Looking ahead, travelers on Emirates flights will need to plan their device charging strategies carefully. Since power banks cannot be used or recharged in-flight, passengers should ensure their devices are fully charged before boarding. Alternative charging options, such as using airport lounges or charging stations before departure, will become increasingly important for long-haul travelers.
In summary, Emirates’ updated power bank policy is a decisive step toward enhancing flight safety by addressing the risks posed by lithium-ion batteries. For Africa’s travel industry, this change highlights the ongoing evolution of airline regulations and the need for proactive communication with clients to navigate these new requirements smoothly.
