As of October 1, 2025, Emirates has tightened its rules on the carriage and use of **external batteries** in the cabin. This decision, which aims to reduce the risks associated with **lithium-ion** batteries, is changing the habits of millions of travellers and imposing new best practices to avoid denied boarding, confiscation or incidents on board.
Emirates tightens rules on external batteries: what's in it for us?
According to Flywest, the measure requires each passenger to carry only one **external battery** with a capacity of strictly less than **100 watt-hours (Wh)**, placed in carry-on baggage and not used during the flight. The device must not be recharged on board, nor used to power a phone, tablet or computer during the flight. The battery must be clearly marked with its capacity and stored under the seat or in the seat pocket in front of the passenger, never in the hold or overhead bins.
Consequences for on-board experience and safety control
In concrete terms, passengers accustomed to multiplying powerbanks or recharging their devices in flight need to think ahead. Emirates points out that standard on-board USB ports and sockets remain available on most devices, but that they do not exempt passengers from the ban on using a portable external battery during the flight. Checks at the boarding gate may be stricter, and agents may refuse boarding of a non-compliant battery or request its removal before the flight.
Why is Emirates taking a tougher stance?
Flywest reminds us that the airline industry has observed an increase in incidents linked to **lithium-ion batteries**, ranging from smoke releases to fire starts caused by **overheating** or "thermal runaway" phenomena. Although rare, these events expose air transport to major risks in the cabin. By limiting the carriage and use of external batteries, Emirates is seeking to prevent any outbreaks of fire that are difficult to control in mid-flight, and to harmonize its safety procedures across its long-haul fleet.
How can you prepare for your trip to avoid unpleasant surprises?
Before boarding, check the capacity indicated on your external battery, and opt for a single unit of less than 100 Wh. Fully charge all your personal devices before boarding, and keep the spare battery in your cabin baggage, ideally under the seat. If you have batteries over 100 Wh, check with the airline: some batteries may be accepted with prior authorization from the airline and subject to specific conditions, but they are often refused altogether. Remember, too, to label your equipment clearly, and avoid batteries that are damaged, swollen or without legible markings.
For business travelers or digital nomads, the new rule means rethinking your recharging strategy: prioritize long-range devices, carry a high-performance wall charger and, whenever possible, use airport or lounge electrical outlets before boarding, rather than relying on an external battery in-flight.
Key information
Essential reminder provided by Flywest: only one **external battery** authorized per passenger, maximum capacity less than **100 Wh**, must be carried in **cabin baggage**, use prohibited during the flight and recharging prohibited on board. The carriage of external batteries in the hold remains strictly forbidden. Passengers carrying batteries with no indication of capacity or showing signs of tampering risk having them confiscated at the check-in point or at boarding.
By incorporating these rules into your travel planning, you will reduce the risk of disruption at the airport and contribute to collective **airline safety**. For all Emirates flights, consult the airline's instructions before departure, and plan ahead to avoid unnecessary stress at check-in. Flywest recommends that you note the capacity of your batteries and keep a single compliant unit in your carry-on baggage, for a worry-free boarding experience.
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