Airlines Enforce Power Bank Ban During Hajj and Umrah Flights

October 2, 2025

Global carriers implement strict safety measures, prohibiting power banks in checked luggage and restricting cabin use for pilgrim travelers.

Photo by Reto Bürkler

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Key Takeaways

Power banks prohibited in checked luggage and restricted to cabin use only.
Capacity limited to under 100Wh with complete ban on in-flight charging.
Violations may result in confiscation, delays or regulatory reporting.

JEDDAH — Major international airlines serving Hajj and Umrah routes have implemented power bank restrictions, banning the devices from checked luggage and prohibiting their use during flights.

The safety measures specifically target pilgrim travel periods, when passengers typically carry multiple electronic devices for religious documentation and communication.

The unified airline policy requires power banks to be carried in cabin baggage only, with capacity limited to under 100 watt-hours.

Airlines including Saudia, Flynas, Emirates, Etihad, Qatar Airways and Air Arabia have additionally banned in-flight charging and use of power banks entirely.

The restrictions address concerns about lithium-ion battery fires, which can escalate rapidly through thermal runaway and pose particular danger during flight.

“Power banks in checked luggage create unacceptable fire risks in cargo compartments where fires cannot be detected or suppressed quickly”
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), International Air Transport Association (IATA) and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)

“The cabin restrictions prevent potential incidents from devices overheating during use.”

Passengers violating these policies face immediate power bank confiscation at security checkpoints, boarding delays, or in-flight intervention by cabin crew.

Repeated violations may result in reporting to aviation authorities under international dangerous goods regulations.

Pilgrims are advised to verify their power bank specifications before travel, ensure proper storage in carry-on baggage, and comply with crew instructions regarding electronic devices.

These measures complement existing safety protocols while accommodating the essential communication needs of travelers performing religious journeys.

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Maisah

Maisah is a Muslimah and journalist for The Islamic Information based in Indonesia. Studying Law at Maritime University of Raja Ali Haji. She believes in the power of words and hopes that her articles will positively impact all of her readers.