If you’re someone who likes to juice up your phone mid-flight, take note: Emirates will no longer allow passengers to use power banks during flights, starting October 1.
You can still carry one with you (under certain conditions), but using it onboard, whether to charge your devices or even charge the power bank itself, will be strictly prohibited.
So, what exactly is changing?
Here’s a quick rundown of the new Emirates power bank rules:
- You’re allowed to carry one power bank, as long as it’s under 100 Watt Hours (Wh).
- You can’t use it to charge any of your devices during the flight.
- You can’t plug it into the aircraft’s power supply to charge the power bank itself.
- The power bank must have visible capacity/rating information.
- It can’t go in the overhead locker, only in your seat pocket or under the seat in front of you.
- Power banks remain banned in checked baggage (this is not new).
Why new rules have been imposed?
According to Emirates, the update comes after a thorough safety review. With the growing popularity of power banks and a corresponding rise in lithium battery-related incidents across the aviation world, the airline is taking a proactive approach to reduce onboard risks.
The core issue? Thermal runaway, a dangerous chain reaction that happens when lithium batteries overheat, potentially leading to fire, explosions, or toxic fumes.
While most modern devices like phones and tablets have built-in protection systems, basic power banks may not, especially lower-cost ones. That makes them more vulnerable to overheating, especially during long-haul flights.
By keeping power banks off-limits for use and storing them in accessible areas of the cabin, Emirates says cabin crew will be able to respond quickly in case of an emergency.
Safety first
“Safety is one of Emirates’ core values,” the airline said in a statement, noting that these new regulations are designed to protect both passengers and crew. Emirates has stressed that the ban is part of its ongoing commitment to maintaining high safety standards onboard.
So, next time you’re flying Emirates, make sure your phone is fully charged before you board, and keep that power bank tucked away. You’ll have to wait until landing to plug back in.
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