Southwest Airlines has changed its rules around portable chargers and power banks. If you want to charge your phone during a flight, you are moving, your power bank will need to be visible if in use. This means that you will not be able to charge your phone inside your bag or overhead bodies. The new safety policy aims to reduce the risk of lithium -ion battery fire.
This change comes in response to a series of heat -related events than lithium -ion batteries. According to the Federal Aviation Administration, there have been 22 battery -related incidents in 2025 in 2025, after 89 such records in 2024. Specifically, a fire-riding fire in South Korea in South Korea, which is suspected to be due to a power bank, caused 176 people and staff.
Read more: The best way to pack your own Carrien Bags through the TSA lines
Although the FAA and Transportation Security Administration currently allows lithium -powered devices such as e -cigarettes and power banks, they ban them in the checked bag, but they do not order that the portable charger be kept directly. According to Reuters, Southwest’s new policy is moving a step further, which has already been adopted by some Asian -based carriers, including Singapore Airlines, Air Asia and all South Korean airlines.
The move by the Southwest Airlines reflects the increasing concern about the safe transport and use of lithium -ion batteries on the aircraft in the aviation industry. Passengers are encouraged to be aware of airline policies and handle electronic devices to ensure a safe travel experience.
Southwest Airlines confirmed CNET in a statement via email, “Southwest will introduce the first industry safety policy on May 28, which will require users to keep the portable charging devices in use while flighting.” “Portable charging devices will not be allowed to use in bags or overhead bin. There is nothing more important for the Southwest than the safety of its customers and employees.”
Find more travel articles, search for the travel accessories you need for every holiday and then take a look at this travel checklist. You should also read about the need for a new real ID.
