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Rabat – UAE airline Emirates announced today that passengers will no longer be allowed to use power banks while on the plane, starting October 1.
The company cited safety concerns due to the risk of overheating and potential fire hazards associated with these devices during flights.
It specified that passengers can bring only one power bank onboard, and it must be under 100 Watt Hours (Wh).
Emirates added that power banks cannot be used to charge devices during the flight, and that they cannot be charged using the plane’s power outlets.
Power banks must have clear capacity information printed on them, the airline noted, adding that they must be kept in the seat pocket or under the seat, not in the overhead bins.
Power banks have long been prohibited in checked luggage, and this rule still applies, the new rules noted.
Emirates explained that lithium batteries in power banks can be risky. If damaged or overcharged, these batteries can get very hot, catch fire, or even explode.
While phones and other advanced devices have safety systems to stop overcharging, many basic power banks do not, making them more dangerous on flights, the airline said.
“After a comprehensive safety review, Emirates is taking a firm and proactive stance to mitigate risk when it comes to power banks onboard,” reads the statement.
By banning the use of power banks onboard, Emirates says it hopes to reduce these risks and keep passengers safe. Also, keeping power banks within easy reach means flight attendants can act quickly if there is an emergency.
“Safety is one of Emirates’ core values, and a cornerstone of all operations and practices,” concluded the airline.
Many people nowadays rely on power banks to keep their phones, tablets, and cameras charged while traveling or when they are away from a power source.
