Emirates bans power banks amid ‘explosion' concerns: New safety rules explained
Using any kind of power bank is prohibited onboard Emirates' flights, effective from 1 October 2025.
A power bank is a portable, rechargeable device primarily designed to provide power to other electronic devices such smart phones, tablets, laptops and cameras.
Emirates customers are still permitted to carry one power bank onboard with specific conditions, but the power banks may not be used while in the aircraft cabin – neither to charge devices from the power bank, nor to be charged themselves using the aircrafts' power source.
Emirates power bank regulations
Emirates customers may carry one power bank that is under 100 Watt Hours
Power banks may not be used to charge any personal devices onboard
Charging a power bank using the aircraft's power supply is not permitted
All power banks accepted for transport must have capacity rating information available
Power banks may not be placed in the overhead stowage bin onboard the aircraft and must now be placed in the seat pocket or in a bag under the seat in front of you
Power banks are not permitted in checked luggage (existing rule)
Why is Emirates banning power banks?
After a comprehensive safety review, Emirates is taking a firm and proactive stance to mitigate risk when it comes to power banks onboard.
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.
Power banks utilise lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries, and their function is as a portable battery pack designed to recharge devices on the go.
The batteries contain lithium ions suspended in an electrolyte solution. The ions flow through the electrolyte, travelling back and forth between two electrodes as the battery charges and discharges.
If the battery is overcharged or damaged, it may result in 'thermal runaway.'
Thermal runaway in batteries is a self-accelerating process where heat generation within a battery cell exceeds its ability to dissipate heat, leading to a rapid and uncontrollable temperature increase.
This can result in dangerous consequences like fire, explosions, and the release of toxic gases.
Most phones and sophisticated lithium battery-powered devices have an internal trickle system which slowly adds current into the battery to prevent overcharging, but many basic power banks may not have this safeguard, increasing the risk.
All power banks are subject to the new rules onboard Emirates.
Emirates' 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.
Safety is one of Emirates' core values, and a cornerstone of all operations and practices.
Emirates is committed to maintaining and improving levels of safety on an ongoing basis, safeguarding customers and staff at all times.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
UAE Moments
2 hours ago
- UAE Moments
Electric vs Hybrid Cars: Which Is Best for Gulf Drivers?
If you live in the GCC, your car isn't just a ride — it's your partner for weekend road trips, desert camping, and dodging bumper-to-bumper traffic on Sheikh Zayed Road. But with fuel prices fluctuating and a growing wave of sustainable living, many drivers are now stuck between two choices: go full electric (EV) or play it safe with a hybrid. So, which is better for Gulf roads, heat, and lifestyle? Let's plug in, fuel up, and find out. Round 1: Performance in Gulf Heat EVs: Modern electric cars are built to handle heat, but battery performance can still take a hit in extreme temperatures. Charging in 45°C weather? Possible, but you'll want shaded or air-conditioned charging stations — thankfully, the UAE and Saudi Arabia are installing more of these every year. Hybrids: With a mix of petrol and electric power, hybrids aren't as dependent on charging stations. Hot weather can still affect battery health over time, but the petrol engine takes the pressure off during peak heat hours. Winner: Hybrid for long-term battery life in scorching summers, EV for those with reliable shade-equipped charging. Round 2: Range & Road Trips EVs: Range anxiety is real, especially if you love spontaneous weekend drives to Ras Al Khaimah or Salalah. While EVs like the Tesla Model S boast over 600km range, that drops if you're running AC at full blast all day (and in the Gulf, you always are). Hybrids: No charging station? No problem. Hybrids can switch to petrol instantly, making them ideal for long drives across the desert where charging points are scarce. Winner: Hybrid for road trip warriors, EV for city-based drivers with access to fast chargers. Round 3: Cost & Maintenance EVs: Higher upfront cost, but lower running costs thanks to no petrol bills and fewer moving parts to maintain. No oil changes, no exhaust issues — just keep an eye on battery health. Hybrids: Lower purchase price compared to many EVs, but you're still paying for fuel and servicing a traditional engine alongside the electric components. Winner: EV for long-term savings, hybrid for lower entry cost. Round 4: Eco-Factor EVs: Zero tailpipe emissions make EVs the cleanest option for Gulf cities working towards greener air. Hybrids: Lower emissions than petrol cars, but still dependent on fossil fuels. Winner: EV for eco-purists. Round 5: Lifestyle Fit If you live in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, or Doha: EVs are getting more practical every month thanks to expanding charging networks. If you live in smaller cities or like long desert drives: Hybrids still offer more flexibility without planning charging stops. If you're tech-obsessed: EVs win with futuristic features, over-the-air updates, and advanced infotainment systems. Final Verdict For daily urban driving with easy access to chargers, EVs are the future — cleaner, cheaper to maintain, and full of cutting-edge tech. But if you're the type to disappear into the Empty Quarter for a weekend, or you don't want to think twice about range, hybrids remain the smarter choice for now. The real winner? You, Gulf driver — because whichever you choose, the region is speeding toward an exciting, greener motoring era.
Khaleej Times
5 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
'Safety first': UAE travellers welcome Emirates ban on power banks in flights
Starting October 1, Emirates will ban the use of any power bank onboard its flights, even for charging devices. While passengers will still be allowed to carry one power bank under 100 Watt Hours in their hand luggage, they can no longer use it mid-flight or recharge it during the journey. For many frequent UAE travellers, the change is seen as a safety measure rather than an inconvenience. Diane Christine Maninang, who frequently travels for work, welcomed the move. 'I'm okay with this rule since it's for everyone's safety,' she said. 'I recently flew a 14-hour flight to the US and found it very convenient to use the built-in charging ports onboard, so I don't think it will affect my in-flight experience much.' "For long-haul journeys, I'll make sure all my devices are fully charged before boarding, and charge them at the airport if needed, and then rely on the aircraft's charging facilities," the head of Research & Development at a private firm in Dubai added. The Filipina expat, who has called Dubai home for 11 years, describes herself as a 'seasoned traveller' and considers the rule 'standard practice.' She added that 'the safety benefits definitely outweigh the inconvenience,' recalling a time she unknowingly packed a facial device with a built-in battery in her checked luggage — and it passed through without being flagged. Dubai resident Arfaz Iqbal also supported the rule, citing passenger safety as the priority. 'No one wants to be the cause of problems during a flight,' he said. 'At airports, there are plenty of charging points, so you can charge your devices before boarding. Alternatively, you can use the aircraft's charging ports instead of carrying power banks.' The radio presenter recalled being stopped at Kochi Airport in India when security found a small toy with lithium batteries in his checked luggage. 'I didn't realise the toy contained batteries. They told me I couldn't keep them in checked baggage and had to place them in my carry-on after declaring them,' he said. Jane Dale, a British expat who travels frequently for leisure, admitted the rule will require her to be more mindful of battery use while working on flights. 'I usually edit my videos onboard, but since planes have charging ports, I'll just use those instead of carrying a power bank,' the 28-year-old content creator said. 'It's a safety hazard, so I'll adjust.' Aviation experts said the restriction addresses real risks. In a recent interview with Khaleej Times, David C., general manager at Emirates Safety Laboratory, explained that lithium-ion batteries in power banks can overheat during use. Pilot and aviation expert Hans-Georg Rabacher also elaborated that overheating — caused by factors like direct sunlight, poor ventilation, overcharging, or physical damage — can trigger a dangerous reaction called thermal runaway. 'This usually starts in one battery cell, which overheats and triggers a chain reaction. The result can be an explosion, toxic gas release, and open flames with temperatures over 1,000°C,' he said.
Khaleej Times
6 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
Free fitness, family time: How Dubai beaches help residents cool down amid soaring heat
With increasing temperatures in the UAE, residents are flocking to the city's beaches to cool off, unwind, and make the most of the season. From early evenings to late nights, beaches across the emirate — including Kite Beach, Jumeirah and Al Mamzar are bustling with life over the weekends. The weekend rush begins as early as Friday afternoon and stretches into Sunday night. With the temperatures slightly decreasing after 4.30pm, families, fitness enthusiasts, and groups of friends head to the shore. Evening fitness at Kite Beach Kite Beach has become a favourite for those looking for leisure with exercise. With its jogging and cycling tracks, it draws residents from different parts of the city. 'I work as an HR manager, and my weekdays are all about being indoors,' said victor Boyle, 41, who lives in Al Barsha. 'Coming to Kite Beach in the evening is my way of staying active while enjoying the sea breeze. I usually run for 3km and then cool down by sitting near the shore. It's the perfect stress buster.' "Apart from my running and jogging, I also swim at the beach on Friday and Sunday. Its hot, but as soon as you immerse in the water, it feels like you release all your stress and enjoy the peace and calmness," added Boyle. Fitness enthusiasts aren't the only ones drawn to the beach. Children and teenagers splash in the water, play with inflatable boats, or enjoy a game of beach volleyball. Family time by the water At Jumeirah Beach and Al Mamzar beach, it's a more laid-back atmosphere, attracting families who set up camp for the evening with chairs, tables, and picnic baskets. 'My wife and I bring our two kids here every Saturday,' said Filipino expat and Sharjah resident Anthony Cruz, who works as a nurse in Dubai. 'The children love playing in the shallow waters, and we get to meet other families. It's affordable, relaxing, and keeps the kids away from their screens.' His wife is seen pouring juice and tea from the packed containers. 'Even in the summer, the evenings here are beautiful,' he said. 'We stay until about 9pm when the kids start to get sleepy.' Night beaches draw late crowds For many, the fun begins only after sunset. Dubai's night beaches, equipped with floodlights, allow residents to swim safely under the stars. 'I finish work around 6pm and head straight here,' said Haroon Malik, a Pakistani and a hotel manager in Dubai Marina. 'It's still warm, but the atmosphere is different at night, it's peaceful, and calm without the midday heat.' "I come here everyday not for just fitness, but there are amazing cafes here and I get to meet like-minded people," added Malik. Lifeguards and beach patrols are also deputed to ensure safety. 'We advise people to stay hydrated and avoid swimming right after eating,' said a lifeguard at Kite Beach, adding that evenings see the heaviest footfall during the summer. "The best part is that people listen to us and even ask us to keep an eye. They are absolute strangers, and they trust us ... feels absolutely great," added the life guard.
