From 1 October 2025, Emirates has rolled out stricter guidelines on carrying and using lithium-battery-powered electronics on its flights. The move is part of a global effort to reduce in-flight battery fire risks, to ban the in-flight use of power banks, and introduce new handling rules for electronic devices. This guide breaks down everything about the Emirates airline's new rules for electronics with accurate, 2025-updated, source-backed details.
Why Did Emirates Change Its Electronics Rules In 2025?
In 2025, Emirates updated its electronics policy following a global rise in incidents involving lithium-ion batteries on aircraft. Overheating, short-circuiting, or battery malfunctions have caused fires in both cabin and cargo areas, prompting airlines to introduce stricter safety rules.
According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) 2025 report, lithium-ion batteries account for over 80% of battery-related in-flight fire incidents worldwide. Emirates’ policy now aligns with IATA’s dangerous goods regulations, ensuring that spare batteries, power banks, and high-capacity devices are carried safely in hand luggage only.
What Are The Rules For Power Banks On Emirates Flights?
Power banks are the most regulated item under Emirates airline's new rules for electronics.
Carry-On Only: Power banks cannot be placed in checked luggage.
Capacity Limits: Only power banks under 100Wh are allowed automatically. Models between 100–160Wh require airline approval.
No In-Flight Use: Charging devices using power banks is strictly banned during the flight.
Proper Storage: Store the power bank under the seat or in your bag; never in overhead bins.
Visible Labels: Capacity ratings must be clearly marked for verification.
A passenger carrying a 30,000mAh power bank (≈111Wh) must get approval before boarding. Otherwise, it cannot be carried onboard. This ensures compliance with safety limits and avoids confiscation at the gate.
What About Other Battery-Powered Devices?
Emirates’ 2025 rules cover a wide range of devices beyond power banks.
Spare Batteries:
- A maximum of 20 spare batteries is allowed in cabin baggage.
- Must be individually protected to avoid short-circuits (tape on terminals or battery pouches).
- Damaged or recalled batteries are strictly prohibited.
Laptops, Tablets, Smartphones:
- Devices with built-in batteries are allowed in cabin baggage.
- Watt-hour limits must be followed for larger laptops or professional devices.
- Charging via onboard power outlets is allowed unless specified otherwise by crew.
E-Cigarettes:
- Allowed only in cabin bags.
- Cannot be used or charged onboard.
Smart Luggage:
- Allowed if the battery is removable.
- The battery must be carried separately in cabin baggage.
- Non-removable batteries in checked luggage are prohibited.
Drones and Hobby Devices:
- Batteries must be removed and carried in hand luggage.
- Watt-hour limits apply.
- Drones must remain off during the flight.
Why Do These Rules Matter For Passengers?
Following these rules is not just about compliance; it directly affects passenger safety. Lithium-ion batteries can overheat rapidly, causing fires that spread within minutes. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA 2025), even small power banks can ignite when damaged, improperly stored, or exposed to metal objects.
For passengers, this means:
- Reduced risk of in-flight incidents
- Fewer delays due to baggage checks or confiscated electronics
- Safer flights for everyone onboard
These rules also help Emirates maintain its safety record and comply with international aviation standards.
How To Prepare For Your Emirates Flight In 2025
Check Watt-Hour Ratings: Confirm your power banks and spare batteries comply with limits.
Keep Batteries In Cabin Bags: Do not pack any spare batteries or power banks in checked luggage.
Charge Devices Before Flying: You cannot rely on power banks for mid-flight charging.
Use Protective Storage: Place spare batteries in pouches or cover terminals with tape.
Label Batteries Clearly: Ensures verification is quick during boarding.
Plan Device Usage: For long flights, plan which devices you need onboard to avoid battery shortages.
Check Airline Updates: Emirates may update rules seasonally — always check before flying.
A professional traveller carrying a drone, two laptops, and three power banks must plan storage carefully. All batteries must go into the cabin bag with power banks under the seat, while devices are used in airplane mode only.
How Does Emirates’ Policy Compare Globally?
Many international airlines have adopted stricter electronics rules:
American Airlines, Lufthansa, and Singapore Airlines also restrict spare batteries to carry-on only.
Some carriers have banned in-flight use of high-capacity power banks (over 100Wh).
Emirates’ 2025 updates align with IATA and FAA guidelines, showing a proactive approach to passenger safety.
FAQs
- How Many Electronic Devices Can I Bring On Emirates?
You can bring multiple devices, but spare batteries and power banks must follow carry-on and watt-hour rules.
- What Electronics Are Not Allowed In Checked Luggage?
Power banks, spare lithium batteries, e-cigarettes, and smart-luggage batteries (if removable) cannot go in checked baggage.
- What Are The Rules For Flying With Electronics?
Devices must follow watt-hour limits, spare batteries must be in hand luggage, and in-flight use of power banks is prohibited.
- Can I Bring A 30000mAh Powerbank On A Plane?
Yes, if the watt-hour rating is under 100Wh. If it exceeds 100Wh, airline approval is required, or it may be disallowed.
Or drop us a mail at help@beno.com
