A major airline which flies from Glasgow Airport has announced a huge change.
From October 1, 2025, Emirates passengers will no longer be allowed to use power banks while in-flight in response to 'increasing safety worries'.
According to new regulations, the Daily Record reported that travellers will be permitted to carry one power bank with a capacity of up to 100 watt-hours; however, it must remain switched off during the flight.
It is understood that it will also be against the rules for passengers to use the plane's power outlets.
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The newspaper claimed anyone carrying a power bank must store it in the seat pocket or under the seat in front of them, as placing them in overhead storage or checked luggage will no longer be permitted.
The airline hopes the new rules will improve passenger safety by allowing cabin crew to respond quickly to battery-related emergencies.
It comes after concerns over the nature of power banks, which utilise lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries that pose a risk of overheating due to a process known as 'thermal runaway'.
A statement from Emirates reads: "After a comprehensive safety review, Emirates is taking a firm and proactive stance to mitigate risk when it comes to power banks onboard.
"There has been a significant growth in customers using power banks in recent years, resulting in an increasing number of lithium battery-related incidents onboard flights across the wider aviation industry.
"Power banks primarily utilise lithium-ion or lithium-polymer batteries, and their function is as a portable battery pack designed to recharge devices on the go.
"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.’
"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.
"Most phones and sophisticated lithium battery-powered devices have an internal trickle system which slowly adds current into the battery to prevent overcharging, but many basic power banks may not have this safeguard, increasing the risk.
"All power banks are subject to the new rules onboard Emirates.
"Emirates new regulations will significantly reduce risks associated with power banks by prohibiting their use while onboard the aircraft.
"Storing power banks in accessible locations within the cabin ensures that in the rare event of a fire, trained cabin crew can quickly respond and extinguish the fire.
"Safety is one of Emirates’ core values, and a cornerstone of all operations and practices.
"Emirates is committed to maintaining and improving levels of safety on an ongoing basis, safeguarding customers and staff at all times."
Emirates currently operates flights to and from Glasgow Airport to Dubai.
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