Emirates to ban in-flight use of power banks over safety concerns

Emirates Airline will prohibit passengers from using power banks during flights due to concerns over the risks of overheating, fire, and explosions.

The airline announced the new safety measures will be implemented starting Oct. 1 following a safety review.

Emirates said customers will still be allowed to carry one power bank onboard if it is stored in the seat pocket or a bag under the seat in front, not in the overhead storage.

There is already a ban in place preventing power banks from being stored in checked luggage.

“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,” an Emirates statement said.