The next time you pack your portable charger for a long-haul flight out of Johannesburg, you may have to rethink exactly where—and even whether—you bring it onboard. A growing number of global carriers are rewriting the fine print on personal electronics after a series of mid-air scares linked to lithium-ion batteries.
Why airlines are suddenly worried about in-flight power bank use
The immediate catalyst for the fresh scrutiny was a recent São Paulo-to-Amsterdam service that diverted when a passenger’s power bank overheated and filled the cabin with smoke. No injuries were reported, but the incident forced an emergency landing and renewed industrywide anxiety over “thermal runaway,” the chain reaction that can turn a lithium-ion battery into an airborne fire hazard at 35,000 feet.
The Emirates policy: a firm deadline and strict placement rules
In a prepared statement, the Dubai-based carrier said it will prohibit the use of portable chargers inside the cabin starting 1 October 2025. Passengers will still be allowed to bring one power bank rated below 100 watts, but Emirates now dictates precisely where that single unit can ride: either in the seat-back pocket or inside a bag stowed under the seat in front of you—never in an overhead bin. By making the devices visible and easily reachable, cabin crews can react faster if a battery begins to overheat. The airline also warns travelers not to power up gadgets from a power bank while onboard, nor to plug the bank itself into the aircraft’s USB outlet. Both practices, the company argues, increase the risk of short-circuiting.
Broader industry ripple: other carriers weigh similar bans
Although Emirates is the only airline so far to publish a specific cutoff date, safety directors at several Asian and European flag carriers have privately confirmed to JetsetterGuide.com that their own risk assessments are under way. Some airlines already limit watt-hour ratings to below 160, while others require the pilot’s consent for any battery-powered medical device. Expect those internal guidelines to migrate soon into public-facing baggage policies, especially for routes that cross multiple regulatory jurisdictions.
Expert view: why lithium-ion packs belong in carry-on bags
“Power banks have always been a risk,” Compton said during a live broadcast interview. The corporate-travel consultant explained that batteries stowed in cargo holds face shifting air pressure and friction that can damage their casings. Keeping the units in the cabin allows quick intervention—flight attendants carry halon extinguishers and special fire-containment bags precisely for such events.
What the new rules mean for travelers
The apparent crackdown may feel confusing, especially because airlines have long insisted that lithium-ion batteries ride in carry-on luggage. Below is what to expect between now and 1 October 2025, and how you can stay both compliant and connected.
- Check the watt-hour rating before you fly. Most power banks list capacity in milliamp-hours. Convert the figure to watt-hours (mAh ÷ 1,000 × voltage) to confirm it sits below the 100-watt threshold.
- Pack only one unit. Emirates explicitly allows just one power bank per passenger. Other airlines may follow suit, so assume a single-device limit unless your carrier’s web page says otherwise.
- Keep it visible. Seat-back pockets and under-seat bags are acceptable; overhead lockers are not. The rule aims to give crew members an unobstructed view of any smoke or heat.
- Do not charge during flight. Even if your airline has not banned in-flight charging outright, think twice. A device warming up in your hands is easier to monitor than one tucked away and forgotten.
- Inspect for damage. Swollen casings, dents or frayed cables are red flags. Replace compromised batteries before you leave for the airport.
Tips for travelers connecting through multiple hubs
Because battery regulations can differ among civil-aviation authorities, be sure to read the policy of every airline on your itinerary. A power bank approved by your departure carrier might be confiscated in transit if the next airline enforces a stricter standard. Keep documentation of your battery’s rating handy; many manufacturers print the watt-hour figure on the case or include a specification card in the box.
Looking ahead: Could cabin power banks be a thing of the past?
Industry analysts note that lithium-ion incidents remain rare compared with the millions of batteries that crisscross skies daily. Still, the optics of smoke-filled cabins prompt swift regulatory action. Aircraft manufacturers are studying built-in seat chargers with safer power management systems, a move that could one day reduce the need for passenger-supplied batteries altogether. The rollout of Emirates’ ban gives the rest of the industry roughly one year to align or diverge. For now, the overarching message from Johannesburg to Amsterdam is clear: a portable charger is a privilege, not a right. Keep it small, keep it in sight and keep it cool—otherwise, your next layover may be an unscheduled one.
FAQ: In-flight power bank rules
How many power banks can I carry?
Emirates will permit one unit under 100 watts after 1 October 2025. Other airlines vary, but multiple devices are increasingly discouraged.
Can I pack a power bank in checked baggage?
No. International regulations already require all spare lithium-ion batteries to travel in the cabin.
What happens if my battery starts smoking mid-air?
Flight attendants have fire-containment bags and extinguishers designed for lithium-ion incidents. Immediate action usually includes isolating the device and landing at the nearest airport.
Is a phone considered a power bank?
Mobile phones contain lithium-ion batteries but are treated differently because the battery is enclosed. The new rules target standalone energy packs.
Stay informed, pack smart and keep a watchful eye on your tech—your fellow travelers, and the cabin crew, will thank you.
