Emirates Airlines has announced that a ban on the use of any type of portable charging devices (power banks) aboard its flights will take effect starting tomorrow, October 1, 2025. Although Emirates provides charging ports at every seat on its aircraft, the airline recommends that passengers fully charge their devices before traveling, especially on long-haul flights.
A portable charging device (power bank) is a rechargeable gadget used to supply power to other electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and cameras. Passengers on Emirates are permitted to carry only one power bank in compliance with specific regulations; however, using it inside the cabin is prohibited, whether for charging devices or recharging the unit using the aircraft’s power sources.
Emirates Airlines’ regulations regarding portable charging devices on board include:
* Passengers may carry only one power bank with a capacity of less than 100 watt-hours.
* Charging any personal device with power banks on the aircraft is prohibited.
* Connecting power banks to the aircraft’s power sources for charging is strictly forbidden.
* Each accepted power bank must clearly display its electrical capacity.
* Power banks must not be stored in the overhead compartments; they should be placed in the seat pocket or in a bag under the front seat.
* Power banks are not allowed in checked luggage, according to the current procedures.
Why is Emirates Airlines implementing these changes
Following a thorough review of safety protocols, Emirates is taking a decisive and proactive approach to mitigate risks associated with portable charging devices on board. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in passengers using these devices, which has contributed to a rise in incidents related to lithium batteries in the aviation sector overall.
Portable charging devices primarily operate using lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries. These rechargeable batteries are designed to power devices when on the go and contain lithium ions suspended in an electrolytic solution. During the charging and discharging process, these ions move back and forth between the terminals. If the battery is overcharged or damaged, it can lead to a phenomenon known as “thermal runaway,” which is a self-accelerating reaction that can cause uncontrollable increases in temperature, potentially resulting in fires, explosions, or the release of toxic gases.
While most modern phones and devices with lithium batteries have built-in protections against overcharging, many low-quality portable chargers lack this safety feature, increasing risk levels. All portable charging devices will now be subject to the new regulations on Emirates flights.
The new guidelines aim to significantly reduce these risks by prohibiting the use of portable charging devices while on board. Additionally, requiring these devices to be stored in easily accessible locations within the cabin allows flight crew to intervene quickly in the event of a fire.
Safety is a core value for Emirates Airlines and a fundamental aspect of all its operations and practices. The airline reaffirms its commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards and continuously enhancing them to ensure the well-being of passengers and staff at all times.