Emirates And Flydubai Lead The Way In Enhancing Air Travel Safety By Tightening Power Bank Regulations And Launching A New Public Awareness Campaign

Emirates and Flydubai have introduced stricter regulations regarding the transportation of lithium-powered devices, in alignment with IATA’s global safety campaign. This initiative comes in response to growing concerns about the fire hazards associated with lithium batteries, particularly in checked luggage. The airlines’ new policies aim to enhance passenger safety by ensuring all lithium-powered devices, such as phones, laptops, and power banks, are carried in hand luggage only, reducing the risk of in-flight fires. This move is part of a broader effort to address misconceptions among travellers and improve safety protocols worldwide.

Global Travellers Misunderstand Battery Safety Rules as IATA Launches New Awareness Campaign

A new international survey has revealed a worrying knowledge gap among air passengers regarding the handling of lithium-powered devices, prompting the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to roll out a global safety campaign. The initiative, titled “Travel Smart with Lithium Batteries,” aims to educate travellers about the serious fire risks associated with improperly packed batteries and devices — an issue gaining attention in the UAE following recent updates to airline policies by major carriers such as Emirates and flydubai.

Widespread Misconceptions About Battery Safety

Despite years of airline warnings and clear regulations, the survey found that travellers remain confused about where and how to carry electronic devices powered by lithium batteries. According to IATA’s research, 93% of travellers believe they understand the rules, yet half of them wrongly think small lithium devices can be placed in checked baggage. Even more concerning, 45% of respondents assume that power banks are permitted in the aircraft hold — a potentially dangerous mistake, given the fire hazards linked to lithium cells.

The findings highlight a critical misunderstanding that could lead to in-flight safety risks. When mishandled or exposed to pressure, lithium batteries can overheat, ignite, or explode. To prevent such incidents, aviation authorities worldwide have long required that these items be transported in cabin luggage, where any malfunction can be quickly addressed by the crew.

Everyday Electronics Pose Hidden Risks

The survey also revealed that 83% of passengers travel with smartphones, 60% carry laptops, and 44% bring power banks. While these devices are now indispensable to modern travellers, many remain unaware that they must always be packed in carry-on bags. IATA emphasizes that even small personal electronics — from electric toothbrushes and shavers to smartwatches and wireless headphones — fall under this rule.

Other items like e-cigarettes and portable gaming consoles are also included, as they rely on lithium-ion batteries that are vulnerable to short-circuiting. In several past incidents, fires linked to lithium batteries have forced flight diversions, underscoring the importance of passenger compliance with safety guidelines.

The Seven Golden Rules for Lithium Battery Safety

To simplify compliance, IATA’s “Travel Smart” campaign highlights seven essential safety rules that travellers should follow before boarding a flight:

1. Keep all lithium-powered devices in carry-on baggage.
   Never pack them in checked luggage due to potential overheating risks.
2. Protect spare or loose batteries.
   Use their original packaging, or cover the terminals with tape to avoid short circuits.
3. Remove devices from bags before gate-checking.
   If a carry-on must be placed in the hold at boarding, all lithium-powered items should be removed.
4. Check battery size limits.
   Batteries over 100 watt-hours (Wh) require prior airline approval before being brought on board.
5. Avoid damaged or counterfeit batteries.
   Faulty or fake products are more likely to cause dangerous malfunctions.
6. Turn devices off when not in use.
   Especially for items with heating elements or rechargeable components.
7. Report unusual smells, smoke, or heat immediately.
   Alert the cabin crew if any device appears to overheat or emit smoke during the flight.

By clearly listing these steps, IATA hopes to make air travel safer and reduce confusion among passengers.

Why Lithium Batteries Are a Growing Concern

Lithium-ion batteries have transformed modern travel — powering everything from mobile phones and tablets to cameras and medical devices. However, their high energy density also makes them susceptible to thermal runaway, a chain reaction that can lead to intense fires. While such incidents are rare, their consequences in an aircraft environment can be severe.

Over the past decade, multiple airlines have updated their safety protocols following battery-related fires both in-flight and on the ground. This includes requiring fire containment bags on board and training cabin crews to handle battery emergencies. The new IATA campaign extends that effort to the public, aiming to eliminate misconceptions before travellers even pack their bags.

Impact on UAE and Global Travellers

In recent months, airlines based in the United Arab Emirates have introduced stricter policies on carrying lithium batteries, reflecting both international safety standards and growing passenger demand for clarity. Emirates and flydubai have updated their guidelines to stress that devices containing lithium batteries must remain in hand luggage, aligning closely with IATA’s recommendations.

For frequent travellers, especially those flying long-haul or with multiple gadgets, these updated regulations serve as a crucial reminder to review their packing habits. Violations may result in confiscated items or denied boarding, underscoring the seriousness with which airlines treat the issue.

A Push for Smarter Travel Habits

Through the “Travel Smart with Lithium Batteries” campaign, IATA is not merely enforcing rules — it is encouraging responsible travel behaviour. The association aims to make passengers active participants in aviation safety by equipping them with accurate, easy-to-understand information.

As technology evolves and travellers increasingly rely on portable power, the campaign comes at a pivotal moment. With awareness, travellers can reduce risks, protect their devices, and ensure a safer flying experience for everyone on board.