Southwest Airlines to Require Portable Chargers Be Visible During Use
Southwest Airlines is introducing a new safety policy requiring passengers to keep portable chargers (power banks) in plain sight while in use during flights, beginning May 28. The move comes amid rising concerns over lithium-ion battery fires, which have been increasing in frequency • Read More
The airline says visible placement of chargers allows for faster response if a device overheats or catches fire. While passengers can still pack chargers in carry-on bags when not in use, they must now ensure the devices are accessible and monitored when active.
Southwest is the first major U.S. airline to adopt such a rule, following similar restrictions implemented by several Asian carriers earlier this year. The change follows recent battery-related incidents, including a fire aboard a Korean plane and an emergency landing in Florida.
According to FAA data, 19 lithium battery-related incidents have already occurred in 2024. Experts urge passengers to avoid placing such devices in checked luggage and to monitor them for overheating or other warning signs.
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