Southwest Airlines Updates Rules for Portable Chargers on Flights

Southwest Airlines has implemented a new safety policy that requires passengers to keep their portable chargers and power banks visible while charging during flights. This means that charging devices can no longer be used inside carry-on bags or overhead bins. The airline's decision comes as a proactive measure to reduce the risk of fires caused by lithium-ion batteries, which have been linked to multiple incidents in recent years.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported 22 battery-related incidents on flights in 2025 alone, following a record 89 such events in 2024. One notable incident involved a fire on an Air Busan flight in South Korea, suspected to have been caused by a power bank with deteriorated insulation, which led to the evacuation of 176 people. These alarming events have prompted airlines like Southwest to adopt stricter safety measures.

While the FAA and Transportation Security Administration currently allow lithium-ion powered devices such as e-cigarettes and power banks in carry-on luggage but prohibit them in checked bags, they do not require these devices to be kept in plain sight during use. Southwest's new policy goes beyond these regulations by mandating visibility, aligning with practices already adopted by several Asia-based carriers including Singapore Airlines, AirAsia, and all South Korean airlines.

"Southwest will introduce a first-in-industry safety policy on May 28 requiring customers to keep portable charging devices visible while in use during flight," the airline confirmed. "Using portable charging devices while stored in a bag or overhead bin will no longer be permitted. Nothing is more important to Southwest than the safety of its customers and employees."

This policy change reflects a growing concern in the aviation industry about the safe transport and use of lithium-ion batteries on aircraft. Passengers are encouraged to stay informed about airline policies and handle electronic devices with care to ensure a safe travel experience.