Emirates Bans In-Flight Power Bank Use from October 2025

Emirates Bans In-Flight Power Bank Use from October 2025: What Travelers Need to Know

Effective date: 1 October 2025
Emirates has announced new onboard safety rules: using any kind of power bank during flight is prohibited. You can still carry one power bank that meets specific conditions, but neither charging devices from it nor charging the power bank itself is allowed while in the cabin.

TL;DR

• No in-flight use of power banks on Emirates from 1 Oct 2025.
• You may carry one power bank under 100Wh with its capacity clearly labeled.
• Do not place power banks in overhead bins or checked baggage. Keep it in your seat pocket or a bag under the seat.
• Rationale: reduce lithium-battery fire risks and allow quick crew access if needed.

The New Rules at a Glance

Permitted to carry (with conditions)

• Quantity: 1 power bank per customer
• Capacity: < 100 Watt-hours (Wh)
• Labeling: Capacity/ratings must be printed on the device
• Placement: Seat pocket or bag under the seat (not overhead)

Not permitted

• Using a power bank to charge phones, tablets, laptops, cameras onboard
• Charging the power bank from the aircraft’s power outlets
• Storing a power bank in the overhead bin
• Packing any power bank in checked luggage (existing rule remains)

Why the Change?

Power banks use lithium-ion or lithium-polymer cells. If damaged, poorly made, or overcharged, a battery can enter thermal runaway—a rapid heat-building chain reaction that can cause fire or smoke. By banning in-flight use and keeping power banks accessible at your seat (not overhead or in the hold), Emirates reduces risk and ensures crew can respond immediately if a device overheats.

How to Check Your Power Bank’s Eligibility

Look for the Wh (Watt-hour) rating on the label. If it’s only in mAh (milliamp-hours) and V (volts), calculate:

Wh = (mAh × V) / 1000

Examples

• 10,000 mAh at 3.7 V → (10,000 × 3.7) / 1000 = 37 Wh (allowed)
• 26,800 mAh at 3.7 V → (26,800 × 3.7) / 1000 = 99.16 Wh (allowed, but close to the limit)

If the capacity isn’t printed or can’t be verified, the power bank may be refused.

Smart Packing Tips

• Fully charge your devices before boarding.
• Carry a longer charging cable to use the aircraft’s power outlets directly for phones/laptops (power bank use is still banned).
• Use low-power modes and airplane mode to extend battery life.
• Keep the power bank in a protective case and avoid crushing or bending it in your bag.
• If you notice swelling, heat, smell, or smoke, alert cabin crew immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring two small power banks if each is under 100Wh?
No. Emirates’ rule allows one power bank per customer.

Can I store my power bank in the overhead bin?
No. It must be in the seat pocket or under the seat in front of you.

Can I use my laptop/phone with the seat power outlet?
Yes, you can use aircraft power for your devices—but not to charge a power bank.

What if my power bank’s label has worn off?
If capacity can’t be verified, the device may be rejected at security/boarding.

Are these rules only for Emirates?
This article covers Emirates’ policy effective 1 Oct 2025. Other airlines may differ; always check your carrier’s latest guidance before traveling.

Final Take

Emirates’ updated policy focuses on prevention: banning in-flight power bank use and keeping devices accessible dramatically reduces risk while enabling faster crew response. Plan ahead—charge devices on the ground or via approved seat power—and you’ll fly smoother, safer, and fully compliant from 1 October 2025.