Emirates Bans Power Banks on Flights Over Fire Safety Risks

Emirates has become the largest airline to ban the use of portable power banks on all flights, citing safety concerns over the potential for lithium-ion battery fires at cruising altitude. The new rules take effect October 1.

The Dubai-based carrier will prohibit passengers from using power banks to charge devices or from connecting them to the in-seat power supply. Additional restrictions include a limit of one power bank per passenger, storage only in the seat pocket or under the seat (not in overhead bins), and a maximum capacity of 100 watt-hours.

The decision follows a safety review triggered by several in-flight incidents involving overheating power banks. The most serious occurred in January aboard an Air Busan Airbus A321 in South Korea, when a power bank ignited in an overhead bin during boarding, destroying the aircraft despite an emergency evacuation.

Lithium-ion batteries can overheat due to damage or improper charging, potentially causing “thermal runaway,” a chain reaction that produces intense, hard-to-extinguish fires. Emirates says prohibiting in-flight use reduces risk and ensures crew can respond quickly if a fire occurs.

Other carriers have implemented more limited measures. Southwest Airlines requires power banks to remain accessible during flight but still allows use, while Lufthansa and Eurowings ban charging via seat power. Singapore Airlines permits power banks on board but prohibits their in-seat charging.

Airlines already ban storing power banks in checked luggage due to the difficulty of fighting cargo hold fires. With incidents increasing, Emirates’ move could prompt more airlines to adopt stricter regulations.

Related News: https://airguide.info/category/air-travel-business/travel-health-security/

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, paddleyourownkanoo.com