Emirates bans power banks on flights: what passengers should do now.

Emirates Airlines bans carrying batteries on board planes

According to The Sun: Emirates Airlines has announced a ban on the use of "any" batteries on all its flights, starting from October 1, 2025.

This decision is related to safety concerns following an incident with a South Korean aircraft that was destroyed in a fire. According to relevant authorities, the fire that damaged the Airbus was likely caused by a portable battery.

Fortunately, all 176 passengers were able to evacuate. This horrific incident, which occurred just before departure from the airport in South Korea, prompted Emirates to join other well-known international airlines that have already banned the use of batteries in aircraft cabins.

"The use of any type of batteries is prohibited on Emirates flights, starting from October 1, 2025.

"A battery" is a portable, rechargeable device primarily intended to power other electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and cameras.

"Emirates customers can still bring one battery on board under certain conditions.

"But batteries may not be used in the aircraft cabin – neither for charging devices nor for charging the batteries themselves from the aircraft's power source."

Emirates Airlines emphasized that it is taking "decisive measures to reduce the risks associated with batteries on board." This decision resulted from a "thorough safety analysis."

New battery usage rules on Emirates flights

• Emirates customers may bring one battery with a capacity of up to 100 watt-hours.
• Batteries may not be used to charge personal devices on board.
• Charging the battery from the aircraft's power source is prohibited.
• All batteries allowed for transport must have capacity information.
• Batteries may not be stored in overhead compartments and must remain in the seat pocket or in the bag under the seat in front of you.
• Batteries are prohibited from being included in checked baggage (existing rule).

Reasons for the battery usage ban

Emirates Airlines stated that their new rules are aimed at reducing risks for passengers and crew. The company explained its decision by the increasing incidents related to lithium batteries in international aviation.

"They are like a ticking bomb, but no one knows when it will explode."

Lo Kok-keung, retired engineering professor

Representatives of South Korean airlines reported that preliminary investigations suggest that the fire aboard Air Busan may have started due to insulation damage inside the battery.

Passengers should be alerted to any signs of battery damage, including "swelling or defects" before boarding, Wired reports.

Changes in battery usage rules at other airlines

Similar bans have already been implemented by airlines Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Thai Airways, and Cathay Pacific due to the rising danger associated with battery use on board. Customers are advised to carefully check their batteries for damage and leaks to avoid dangerous situations during flight.

Emirates' new policy reflects a global trend towards stricter security controls in aviation. In light of increasing battery-related incidents, airlines are required to take measures to ensure the safety of their passengers and crew. These changes concern not only Emirates but also several other carriers that have already adapted their rules to modern challenges.