Emirates Bans Power Banks on Flights from Oct 2025

Starting October 1, 2025, Emirates bans use of power banks aboard flights. This rule aims to mitigate lithium battery risks (thermal runaway) — agents and planners must adapt client guidelines and communicate storage limits (≤ 100 Wh).

Emirates’ New Power Bank Policy: What B2B Travel Stakeholders Must Know

Introduction

Emirates has rolled out a bold new safety policy affecting its flights globally: from October 1, 2025, the use and in-flight charging of power banks on all Emirates flights is prohibited. 

For travel agents, consolidators, corporate travel planners, and airline professionals, this change is more than a passenger inconvenience — it demands coordination, communication and process updates to safeguard client trust and ensure compliance.

Why the Ban? Understanding the Safety Rationale

Lithium-Ion Batteries & Thermal Runaway

Power banks harness lithium-ion cells, which—under damage, overcharging or internal faults—can trigger thermal runaway, a chain reaction that leads to overheating, fire or even explosion.
Because aircraft cabins are enclosed, any battery fire poses disproportionate risk.

Industry Incidents & Heightened Scrutiny

In recent years, incidents involving power bank overheating aboard aircraft have increased. Reuters reports that in 2024, lithium battery–related incidents averaged three every two weeks industry-wide, prompting airlines to revisit policies.

Emirates cites a comprehensive safety review and alignment with tightening global standards. 

Regulatory Backbone: IATA & Dangerous Goods Rules

Emirates’ rule is consistent with IATA’s guidelines: lithium and rechargeable batteries must adhere to watt-hour limits, and loose batteries (“spares”) are prohibited in checked baggage.

IATA’s Dangerous Goods Regulations also call for clear labeling and packaging of batteries, and starting 2026, batteries shipped with devices must be offered at a maximum 30 % state-of-charge.

Implications & Actions for B2B Travel Professionals

For Travel Agencies & Corporate Planners

• Update client briefings and itineraries to include these new rules (i.e. “charge devices fully before boarding”).

• Revise policy handouts and internal documentation (ticketing systems, mobile apps) so clients aren’t surprised mid-flight.

• Train frontline staff and travel consultants so they can proactively flag concerns when clients book with Emirates.
  
  

For Consolidators & Corporate Travel Buyers

• Include these battery rules in contractual communications with clients traveling via Emirates, especially in multi-carrier itineraries.

• Negotiate or request clause additions in corporate travel programs addressing battery compliance.

• Monitor onward carrier policies — if Emirates is enforcing stricter rules, others may follow.
  
  

For Airline & Safety Teams

• This move sets a precedent — expect further battery-safety policies across carriers.

• Collaborate on industry standardization efforts (IATA, ICAO, regional regulators) to align cross-carrier battery rules.

• Analyze passenger feedback and operational impact to calibrate support (e.g., device charging hubs pre-boarding).
  
  

Common Questions from Clients & Best Practices

Q: Can I still carry a power bank?

Yes — but it must be ≤ 100 Wh, carried in cabin baggage only, and must remain unused throughout the flight.

Q: What if I need to charge mid-flight?

Use the seat’s inbuilt USB/C or power outlets — just not the power bank. Emirates explicitly forbids in-flight use of portable battery packs. 

Q: What about devices with built-in batteries (phones, laptops)?

Those remain allowed as long as they are switched off or placed in flight/safe mode, per standard electronic device rules.

Q: Are there exemptions?

Emirates hasn’t announced exemptions — the new rule is a blanket ban on portable battery use aboard flights.

Strategic Takeaway for B2B Travel Stakeholders

Emirates’ prohibition on power bank use signals a pivotal shift in airline safety policy. For B2B professionals, the move isn’t just regulatory—it’s a reputational and operational pivot. Clients expect seamless, risk-free travel experiences; such changes must be front and center in your planning and service delivery.

By proactively adjusting briefing materials, staff training, client communications, and contract terms, you’ll not only stay ahead of compliance but also deliver extra value—ensuring your clients’ journeys are safe and disruption-free.

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