Southwest Airlines Bans Charging Power Banks in Bags
Starting May 28, Southwest Airlines will no longer allow passengers to charge devices using power banks stowed inside carry-on bags, citing safety concerns. The new policy requires that any active portable charger be placed in plain sight—such as on a tray table, in a seat pocket, or atop a personal item at your feet. Powered-off devices may still be stored inside bags under seats or in overhead bins.
The move aims to reduce fire risks linked to lithium battery overheating, a concern highlighted by the Federal Aviation Administration. Since 2006, the FAA has recorded 620 incidents involving lithium battery-related smoke, fire, or heat, with power banks responsible for 240 of those. In 2023, a Spirit Airlines flight made an emergency landing after a battery in an overhead bin ignited midair.
“This policy is about accessibility,” said Hassan Shahidi, president of the Flight Safety Foundation. “If a battery overheats, being able to reach it immediately is critical.”
Southwest becomes the first major U.S. airline to enforce such an in-cabin rule. The FAA already bans spare lithium batteries in checked baggage and recently updated its policy to include portable chargers and power banks.
Globally, Asian carriers have introduced stricter rules. Korean-owned airlines now require passengers to store power banks in plastic pouches or seat pockets, and prohibit their use mid-flight. Eva Air and Thai Airways ban charging entirely.
Passengers are advised to pre-charge devices and, when possible, use seat outlets. FAA experts recommend limiting device charges to 30 percent and turning off unused electronics to reduce thermal risks.
Related News: https://airguide.info/?s=Southwest+Airlines, https://airguide.info/category/air-travel-business/travel-health-security/safety/
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, washingtonpost.com