Emirates has joined a raft of airlines in banning power banks, with the ban imposed from 1 October 2025 following a safety review.
The airline warned that the device will not be allowed to be used in aircraft cabins for fear of “dangerous consequences like fire, explosions, and the release of toxic gases”.
It said in a statement: “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.
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“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.”
Airlines which have already brought in restrictions include Singapore, EVA, Thai, AirAsia, Air Busan, China Airlines, Korean Air, Cathay, Hong Kong Airlines, Tigerair, Starlux, and Asiana.
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) advises that “spare batteries for portable electronic devices containing lithium-ion batteries exceeding a Watt-hour rating of 100 Wh but not exceeding 160 Wh” are permitted in carry-on luggage for personal use.
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Glenn Bradley, head of flight operations at the CAA, said: “Lithium batteries power everything from vapes and mobile phones to cameras and power banks.
“If they become faulty or damaged, they can cause an intense fire that is difficult to extinguish – both in the cabin or hold of an aircraft.
“Correct handling reduces risk. Lithium batteries should be carried in your carry-on baggage.
“Power banks and spare batteries should also be in a cabin bag and should be completely turned off and not in standby mode.”
