Power Bank Ban: Emirates And Airlines' New Flight Rules

If you’re flying with Emira t es soon, there’s a new rule that has been in place since October 1, 2025. You can no longer use your power bank during the flight. The airline now allows only one power bank with a capacity of less than 100 watt-hours in your carry-on bag. You also can’t charge it or plug it in while on board.

Ignoring this rule might cause trouble. Crew members are taking this seriously, and if you don’t follow the guidelines, you could face issues during check-in or while flying.

What Emirates Now Allows (and Doesn’t)

You can take only one power bank, and it must be under 100 Wh.
The capacity should be clearly labeled on the device.
Charging devices with a power bank inside the aircraft is not allowed.
Power banks should stay in your carry-on bag, not checked baggage.
You can’t keep them in the overhead bin. Put them under your seat or in the seat pocket.
If your power bank gets hot, leaks, or stops working, show it to the crew immediately.

Basically, you can carry it, but you can’t use it once you’re on the plane.

Also Read:Emirates Manage My Booking – Change, Cancel & Upgrade Flights Online

Why Power Banks Are Restricted from Use on Flights Now?

Power banks run on lithium-ion batteries, which can overheat or catch fire. Cheap or low-quality ones are even riskier. They sometimes lack features like auto shut-off or temperature control.

Emirates isn’t the only airline to tighten rules. Contact Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Korean Air, EVA Air, China Airlines, and AirAsia have also banned the use of power banks onboard.

This move came after several safety incidents. One example is a 2023 Air Busan flight, where a power bank caused a small fire that injured 27 passengers. After that, many airlines started reviewing their in-flight safety rules.

How to Stay Safe and Avoid Trouble

Here’s what you can do as a passenger to stay prepared:

Charge all your devices before boarding. Don’t depend on your power bank.
Use the in-seat charging ports if your flight has them.
Make sure your power bank’s capacity label is visible and under 100 Wh.
Never pack it in your checked luggage. It can cause serious safety issues.
Listen to the crew’s instructions. They might ask you to hand it over if it doesn’t meet safety limits.

This rule is not meant to make travel harder. It’s a safety precaution to avoid accidents and delays. The cabin crew can respond faster if the power bank is within reach instead of locked in a suitcase below.

If you usually carry multiple gadgets, plan ahead with Flying Guidelines. Bring only what’s necessary and check your power bank’s watt-hour before packing. If it’s higher than 100 Wh or not labeled, it’s better to leave it at home.

FAQs

What happens if airport security finds a power bank in my checked luggage?

If a power bank is found in checked baggage, airport security or the airline will step in. This can lead to:

No Warning: If you can’t be reached, the item is taken out and the bag is sent without it, and you lose the power bank for good.

Bag Delay: Your luggage may be removed from the conveyor for inspection, which can delay delivery by days.

Confiscation: Security can open locked bags and take the power bank permanently. A notice may be left inside.

Are ‘Smart Bags’ with built-in power banks allowed on flights?

Only under one condition: the lithium battery must be removable.

Non-Removable Batteries: Permanently installed batteries are banned on many airlines.

Carry-On: Removable batteries can stay in the bag if accessible.

Checked Bags: The battery must be removed and carried with you.

What should I do if my power bank starts to swell or feel hot?

If your power bank starts to heat:

They have the tools and training to manage overheating batteries safely.

Stop using the battery immediately.

Call a flight attendant. Don’t handle it yourself or try to fix it.

Can I use my power bank to charge my phone/laptop while on the plane?

It depends on the airline. Some still allow using a power bank if it is under 100 Wh and stays in your carry-on. Many major airlines now ban all in-flight use. Power banks must stay off and be kept under the seat or in the seat pocket. You cannot charge the power bank itself using the plane’s power outlets.