Dubai airline sets new rules for carrying power banks onboard flights

Power banks cannot be used on Emirates flights from October 1, the Dubai airline has confirmed.

"Emirates travellers are still permitted to carry one power bank onboard with specific conditions but it's a strict 'no' using them from October 1" - the airline said in a statement. 

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Why are using power banks onboard flights a risk?

The batteries contain lithium ions suspended in an electrolyte solution.

The ions flow through the electrolyte, travelling back and forth between two electrodes as the battery charges and discharges.

"If the battery is overcharged or damaged, it may result in ‘thermal runaway’," according to Emirates.

"Thermal runaway in batteries is a self-accelerating process where heat generation within a battery cell exceeds its ability to dissipate heat, leading to a rapid and uncontrollable temperature increase.

"This can result in dangerous consequences like fire, explosions, and the release of toxic gases."