Saturday, May 24, 2025
In a pioneering move to enhance passenger safety, Southwest Airlines has announced a new in-flight policy regarding the use of portable chargers and power banks.
May 28, 2025, will mark a significant shift in in-flight safety protocol as Southwest Airlines becomes the first U.S. carrier to enforce a rule requiring all portable battery packs and power banks to remain visible while in use during flights. The new policy comes as part of a broader initiative to reduce the growing number of safety incidents caused by lithium-ion batteries, which are now one of the leading causes of onboard fires.
While some international airlines have adopted comparable measures, this will be a first in the domestic U.S. airline industry, and it’s expected that other carriers may soon follow suit.
Understanding the New Policy
Under the forthcoming regulation, passengers must ensure that any portable charging devices are placed in plain sight—such as on tray tables or seat pockets—when actively charging electronic devices during the flight. The use of these chargers while concealed within bags or stowed in overhead bins will no longer be permitted. However, when not in use, power banks may still be stored in carry-on luggage, provided they remain powered off.
Southwest Airlines emphasized that this policy is a proactive step to address safety concerns, stating, “Nothing is more important to Southwest than the safety of its customers and employees.”
Why Is This Policy Necessary?
Lithium-ion batteries, though compact and efficient, carry inherent fire risks. These batteries can overheat or short-circuit, especially when packed tightly inside bags where airflow is restricted or when they’re charging devices that draw heavy current.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), lithium batteries were involved in over 400 air travel-related incidents globally from 2006 to 2024.
In 2024 alone, 89 such incidents were recorded, with power banks and electronic cigarettes cited most frequently as the source of ignition. These figures are accessible via the FAA’s official Hazmat Safety portal.
While regulations already prohibit these batteries in checked baggage, they remain permissible in carry-ons, provided they’re within FAA watt-hour limits (generally ≤100 Wh unless airline-approved).
However, no U.S. airline had implemented additional visual monitoring measures—until now.
Rationale Behind the Policy
The decision stems from increasing incidents involving lithium-ion batteries overheating or igniting during flights. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported 19 such incidents in 2025 alone, following a record 89 cases in 2024. These events often involve devices like portable chargers, e-cigarettes, and laptops, which can pose significant fire hazards when their batteries malfunction.
By mandating that portable chargers be kept visible during use, Southwest aims to facilitate prompt detection and response to any signs of overheating or fire. This visibility allows flight attendants and passengers to act swiftly, potentially preventing more severe incidents.
Comparison with Existing FAA Guidelines
While the FAA currently prohibits lithium-ion batteries in checked luggage, it permits them in carry-on bags. However, there is no specific mandate requiring these devices to be visible during use. Southwest’s new policy thus goes beyond existing federal regulations, setting a precedent that other airlines may follow.
Global Context and Precedents
Internationally, several airlines have already implemented similar restrictions. For instance, carriers like Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways, and South Korea’s Air Busan have introduced measures limiting the use or storage of portable chargers during flights. These actions were often in response to incidents where lithium-ion batteries caused fires onboard, highlighting the global nature of this safety concern.
Passenger Compliance and Communication
To ensure passengers are informed about the new policy, Southwest has begun issuing notifications through its mobile app and other communication channels. Travelers are advised to comply with the guidelines to avoid potential disruptions or safety risks during their journey.
Conclusion
Southwest Airlines’ introduction of this policy underscores the evolving challenges airlines face in ensuring passenger safety amid the widespread use of electronic devices powered by lithium-ion batteries. By requiring portable chargers to be visible during use, the airline aims to reduce the risk of in-flight fires and enhance overall safety. As technology continues to advance, such proactive measures may become standard practice across the aviation industry.
