Emirates introduces ban on all flights from October

Emirates has announced a ban on the use of power banks during flights due to increasing safety concerns. From October 1, 2025, passengers will no longer be allowed to use these devices while in-flight. Under the new rules, passengers can carry one power bank with a capacity of up to 100 watt-hours, but it must remain switched off throughout the flight. Charging power banks using the aircraft's power outlets will also be prohibited.

Power banks must be stored in the seat pocket or under the seat in front of passengers, and they will no longer be allowed in overhead bins or checked luggage. Emirates stressed that these measures are aimed at enhancing passenger safety by enabling cabin crew to quickly respond to any battery-related emergencies.

The concern stems from the nature of power banks, which use lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries that can overheat due to a process known as thermal runaway.

This happens when a battery generates heat faster than it can dissipate, potentially leading to fires, explosions, and the release of harmful gases.

While many smartphones have built-in protections to prevent overcharging, some power banks lack these safety features, increasing the risk onboard.

Emirates has issued a statement saying: "After a comprehensive safety review, Emirates is taking a firm and proactive stance to mitigate risk when it comes to power banks onboard. There has been a significant growth in customers using power banks in recent years, resulting in an increasing number of lithium battery-related incidents onboard flights across the wider aviation industry.

"Power banks primarily utilise lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries, and their function is as a portable battery pack designed to recharge devices on the go.

"The batteries contain lithium ions suspended in an electrolyte solution. The ions flow through the electrolyte, travelling back and forth between two electrodes as the battery charges and discharges.

"If the battery is overcharged or damaged, it may result in 'thermal runaway.' Thermal runaway in batteries is a self-accelerating process where heat generation within a battery cell exceeds its ability to dissipate heat, leading to a rapid and uncontrollable temperature increase. This can result in dangerous consequences like fire, explosions, and the release of toxic gases.

"Most phones and sophisticated lithium battery-powered devices have an internal trickle system which slowly adds current into the battery to prevent overcharging, but many basic power banks may not have this safeguard, increasing the risk. All power banks are subject to the new rules onboard Emirates.

"Emirates new regulations will significantly reduce risks associated with power banks by prohibiting their use while onboard the aircraft.

"Storing power banks in accessible locations within the cabin ensures that in the rare event of a fire, trained cabin crew can quickly respond and extinguish the fire.

"Safety is one of Emirates' core values, and a cornerstone of all operations and practices. Emirates is committed to maintaining and improving levels of safety on an ongoing basis, safeguarding customers and staff at all times."

More details can be found on the Emirates website.