Everything You Need To Know About Airlines Just Banned Your Favourite Gadgets—Find Out What’s Really Happening and Why It’s Critical

Published on September 29, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

In 2025, airlines have just banned your favourite gadgets, and it’s crucial for every traveller to know why. These new regulations, which focus on the safety of electronic devices, are shaking up how we travel. Airlines are taking drastic measures to protect passengers from the potential risks posed by lithium-ion batteries in devices like laptops, smartphones, and power banks. This ban means many of the gadgets you rely on for work or entertainment may no longer be allowed in your checked luggage or even onboard under certain conditions. Understanding what’s really happening and why it’s critical is more important than ever. These changes are not just minor adjustments; they could dramatically affect your travel experience, leaving you stranded or scrambling at the airport. Stay informed, and read on to discover everything you need to know about these new, potentially game-changing rules.

In 2025, air travel is witnessing an overhaul of safety regulations, particularly regarding the use of electronic devices like laptops, smartphones, and power banks. The aviation industry, responding to the growing safety concerns associated with lithium-ion batteries, has introduced stringent new rules designed to minimise risks and ensure the safety of passengers and crew members. These changes have not only affected the way passengers pack and use their electronic devices, but also the policies that airlines must implement to address potential fire hazards caused by lithium-ion batteries.

This article delves deep into the new rules, the implications for air travellers, and how these policies are shaping the future of aviation safety. From carry-on luggage requirements to airline-specific rules, the global air travel landscape is changing, making it more critical than ever to understand how these regulations may impact your next flight.

The Evolution of Lithium-Ion Battery Safety in Aviation

Lithium-ion batteries, widely used in everyday electronic devices, have long been a source of concern in aviation due to their potential to overheat and catch fire. As air travel continues to expand, so does the number of devices powered by lithium-ion batteries being transported on commercial flights. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and other aviation safety organisations worldwide have recognised the dangers these batteries pose, especially in the enclosed environment of an aircraft.

Over the years, airlines have been required to introduce stricter policies to mitigate these risks. In 2025, these efforts have culminated in more rigid safety protocols designed to limit the risk of fires triggered by overheated or malfunctioning lithium-ion batteries. With incidents of battery fires increasing in frequency, the aviation industry has moved to tighten rules on how these devices are handled, carried, and used during flights.

Prohibition on Lithium-Ion Devices in Checked Baggage

One of the most notable changes in the 2025 aviation safety regulations is the enforcement of a complete prohibition on lithium-ion battery-powered devices, including laptops, smartphones, and power banks, in checked baggage. The reasoning behind this measure is simple: if a device were to malfunction and catch fire in the cargo hold, there would be little to no ability to detect or extinguish the fire in time.

To address this, aviation authorities now require passengers to carry all lithium-powered devices in their carry-on luggage. This ensures that the devices are kept in the passenger cabin, where crew members can respond quickly in the event of overheating or fire. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States, as well as the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and other global regulatory bodies, have taken a strong stance on this policy, making it a universal requirement for all international and domestic flights.

Airline-Specific Policies on Lithium-Ion Batteries

While the general regulation on lithium-ion batteries applies universally, several airlines have gone further, implementing their own policies in response to recent safety incidents and growing concerns. The airlines have adapted their rules on electronic devices and batteries to address specific safety needs.

Southwest Airlines: Prohibiting Portable Chargers in Cabin Baggage

Southwest Airlines, one of the leading carriers in the United States, has introduced a stringent policy effective from May 2025 that bans the carrying of portable chargers and power banks in both carry-on luggage and overhead bins. This decision was made after several near-miss incidents involving the overheating of power banks. Southwest’s policy mandates that passengers keep their devices visible and within reach during the flight to enable flight attendants to detect any possible issues related to overheating. This proactive approach is seen as a critical step in preventing fire risks during flights.

For those who need to charge their devices during the flight, Southwest has provided an alternative: in-seat power outlets that are safer and pose no fire risk compared to portable power sources. Passengers are encouraged to bring only low-power charging cables, reducing the likelihood of an incident.

Emirates Airline: Restricting Power Bank Usage

Another significant policy change comes from Emirates Airline, which, starting from October 2025, has imposed restrictions on the use of power banks during flights. Emirates passengers are still permitted to carry power banks in their cabin baggage but must adhere to specific guidelines: power banks must not exceed a capacity of 100 watt-hours (Wh) and should be clearly labelled for easy identification. Additionally, the airline has prohibited in-flight charging from power banks to further reduce the risk of fire.

This move aligns with global safety standards and reflects Emirates’ commitment to ensuring the safety of passengers and crew members while maintaining a high level of customer service and comfort during flights. Passengers planning to fly with Emirates are urged to check the specifications of their power banks and electronics before heading to the airport to ensure compliance with the airline’s updated rules.

Turkish Airlines: A Focus on Smart Luggage

Turkish Airlines has also revised its policies concerning smart luggage, which typically contains lithium-ion batteries. Following incidents where smart luggage caused fire hazards, the airline has introduced a ban on all smart luggage with non-removable batteries in both checked and cabin baggage. Passengers are required to remove the lithium battery from their smart luggage and carry it separately in their cabin baggage, where it can be safely monitored during the flight.

In line with other carriers, Turkish Airlines has provided clear guidelines on how passengers should manage their luggage, ensuring the safety of all travellers on board. This policy reflects a growing trend across the industry, with airlines taking a strong stand against potential fire risks posed by modern luggage and travel accessories.

Regulatory Oversight: ICAO and IATA’s Role

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) have played crucial roles in shaping these new safety regulations. As global authorities responsible for maintaining aviation safety, both organisations have issued guidelines that require airlines to adopt measures that address the potential fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries.

ICAO’s guidelines have led to tighter controls on the transportation of lithium batteries, including restrictions on the quantity of spare batteries passengers can carry. These regulations stipulate that spare batteries must be protected from short-circuiting, and airlines must clearly label lithium-ion-powered devices for identification. Additionally, ICAO’s policies advocate for the use of fire-resistant containers in case of fire-related incidents.

IATA has further supported these guidelines by urging airlines to implement additional measures to safeguard against the risks posed by lithium-ion batteries, such as monitoring the temperature of devices and offering safe charging alternatives during flights. Through these joint efforts, the global aviation community has established a cohesive strategy to mitigate fire hazards and improve passenger safety.

What Does This Mean for Passengers?

For passengers, understanding these regulations is critical. With the new rules in effect, here are the key takeaways for travellers in 2025:

1. Carry Devices in Cabin Luggage

Passengers must ensure that all devices with lithium-ion batteries, including laptops, smartphones, and power banks, are carried in cabin baggage. Devices placed in checked luggage will be confiscated by airport security, and this could result in delays or missed flights.

2. Smart Luggage: Check the Batteries

Smart luggage, which often contains lithium-ion batteries, is subject to strict rules. Passengers are now required to remove the battery from smart luggage and carry it in the cabin. Luggage with non-removable batteries is not allowed in checked baggage, and airlines may refuse to allow the device on board if it doesn’t comply with the new regulations.

3. Power Bank Limitations

Power banks are still permitted on flights but must not exceed 100 watt-hours (Wh). Any power bank exceeding this limit will be confiscated at security. It’s important for travellers to check the specifications of their devices and power banks before arriving at the airport.

4. Follow Airline-Specific Guidelines

Each airline may have its own set of rules related to lithium-ion batteries, and passengers should familiarise themselves with these guidelines before travelling. Airlines like Southwest, Emirates, and Turkish Airlines have introduced their own policies in addition to global safety standards. Staying informed will help prevent last-minute disruptions at the airport.

The Future of Aviation Safety: A Focus on Innovation

As technology advances and more devices are integrated into air travel, the aviation industry will continue to innovate and adjust its safety protocols to ensure passenger safety. The 2025 changes to laptop and lithium-ion battery rules represent just one step in the ongoing effort to make air travel safer.

Future developments may include the use of advanced fire-suppressant systems in cargo holds, increased monitoring of electronic devices during flights, and potentially new methods for safely charging devices in-flight. Airlines and regulatory bodies will continue to assess emerging risks and take proactive measures to mitigate safety concerns.

Conclusion: The Role of Passengers in Ensuring Safety

The recent changes to aviation safety rules regarding laptops and lithium-ion batteries are vital for the continued safety and security of passengers and flight crews. While these regulations may seem restrictive, they are designed to prevent dangerous incidents that could have devastating consequences. By understanding the new guidelines and adhering to airline-specific rules, passengers play an essential role in making air travel safer for everyone.

As we move through 2025 and beyond, these regulations will continue to evolve, but one thing is certain: safety will remain at the forefront of the global aviation industry.