If you’re flying with Emirates, understanding the latest power bank flight rules is essential before you pack your hand luggage. As of October 1, 2025, Emirates has introduced stricter safety measures for passengers carrying power banks on board. These updates apply to every traveler, regardless of cabin class or route, and failing to follow them can result in your device being confiscated at security.
This guide explains exactly what you can and cannot carry, how much power capacity is allowed, and what actions are now banned under Emirates’ new battery safety policy.
Why Emirates Updated Its Rules
Airlines worldwide have become more cautious about lithium batteries after a rise in cabin fire incidents caused by overheating power banks. Emirates has now aligned its policy with international aviation safety standards, taking the extra step of banning the in-flight use of power banks altogether.
The goal is simple, to reduce any potential fire hazard and make it easier for crew to respond if a device overheats. That means every traveler must follow these power bank flight rules carefully to avoid problems during boarding or mid-air.
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Carrying Power Banks on Emirates Flights
Emirates allows passengers to bring only one power bank per person on board. The device must meet specific safety and labeling requirements before it’s accepted through security.
1. Allowed in Cabin Baggage Only
Power banks are considered lithium battery devices, which means they are not permitted in checked baggage. You must keep yours in your hand luggage throughout the journey. Security staff may ask to see the power capacity printed on the device before you board.
2. Capacity Limit: 100 Watt-hours (Wh)
Under the updated Emirates power bank flight rules, the maximum battery capacity allowed is 100 Wh. This limit applies to all travelers, there are no exceptions for business or first-class passengers.
If the power rating is not printed on your device, it may be refused at check-in. Always make sure your power bank clearly shows its Wh or mAh capacity on the casing or label.
3. Where to Store It
During the flight, your power bank must be stored under the seat in front of you or inside the seat pocket. Placing it in the overhead bin is no longer allowed. The new rule helps crew quickly locate and handle the device in case it overheats or emits smoke.
What You Cannot Do Onboard
The 2025 Emirates announcement made one thing very clear: you can no longer use or charge power banks during the flight.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s prohibited:
- No charging devices with your power bank. You cannot use your power bank to charge your phone, tablet, or laptop during the flight.
- No charging the power bank itself. Using the aircraft’s power outlet or USB ports to recharge your power bank is also banned.
- No storage in checked bags or overhead bins. Keep it only under the seat or in the seat pocket.
- No damaged or unlabelled batteries. If your power bank’s capacity label is missing, or the casing is cracked or swollen, you won’t be allowed to take it onboard.
Emirates staff may inspect suspicious or unmarked batteries during boarding. Always carry only one certified, undamaged power bank that meets the 100 Wh limit.
Examples of What’s Allowed and What’s Not
| Type of Battery / Device | Allowed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Power bank ≤ 100 Wh | Yes | Must be in hand luggage, under seat or in seat pocket |
| Power bank between 100–160 Wh | No | Previously allowed with approval, now restricted |
| More than one power bank | No | Only one per passenger |
| Power bank in checked baggage | No | Not permitted |
| Charging your phone with power bank onboard | No | Usage banned during flight |
| Charging power bank using aircraft outlet | No | Not permitted |
| Power bank with no visible capacity label | No | Must show Wh or mAh rating clearly |
| Damaged, dented, or swollen battery | No | Must be in good physical condition |
Reason Behind the Restrictions
The new power bank flight rules focus on risk prevention. Lithium batteries can short-circuit or overheat if damaged or exposed to heat, potentially causing smoke or fire. By keeping the device nearby, under the seat instead of overhead, the cabin crew can respond immediately to any issue.
Emirates’ safety measures are among the most detailed in the region. The airline has publicly stated that the changes are part of a broader program to “enhance cabin safety and prevent battery-related incidents.”
How to Check the Watt-Hour Rating of Your Power Bank
If your device shows only mAh (milliamp-hours), you can easily calculate watt-hours using this formula:
Wh = (mAh ÷ 1000) × Voltage (V).
Most portable chargers operate at 3.7 V.
For example:
A 10,000 mAh power bank → (10,000 ÷ 1000) × 3.7 = 37 Wh, well within the 100 Wh limit.
If yours exceeds 27,000 mAh (roughly 100 Wh), it won’t be allowed onboard an Emirates flight.
Tips for Travelers
- Carry only one power bank and check its capacity before heading to the airport.
- Keep it visible and accessible during the flight. Don’t hide it inside large bags.
- Avoid cheap, unbranded models: Emirates may reject power banks without certification marks or visible labeling.
- Do not use it mid-flight. Even if crew members don’t notice, using a power bank can violate the updated safety rules.
- If unsure, ask Emirates staff at check-in or gate before boarding. It’s better to clarify than risk confiscation.
What Happens if You Bring the Wrong Power Bank
If your device exceeds 100 Wh or has no visible rating, security officers can deny it at check-in or boarding. In most cases, you’ll be asked to discard the power bank before boarding, as checked-in carriage is not allowed. Emirates’ staff will not store or hold it for collection later.
Final Thoughts
The updated Emirates power bank flight rules are designed for passenger safety, not convenience. While the new restrictions might feel strict, they minimize the risk of in-flight battery incidents.
To stay compliant, always travel with one clearly labeled power bank under 100 Wh, keep it in your hand luggage, and avoid using it during the journey. Following these simple guidelines will ensure a smooth and safe travel experience on every Emirates flight.
