Southwest Airlines has introduced a new safety policy prohibiting passengers from charging electronic devices using portable power banks while the devices are stored in carry-on bags or overhead bins. The airline cited concerns over the risk of lithium-ion batteries overheating or catching fire.
Effective Wednesday, 28 May 2025, all passengers must keep power banks visible and outside of luggage when in use. Devices can no longer be charged while the power source remains enclosed in a bag.
This decision comes in response to a growing number of incidents involving battery malfunctions aboard flights. So far in 2025, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has recorded 22 cases of lithium batteries overheating, igniting, or emitting smoke during air travel. In 2024, the total stood at 89.
“Using portable chargers while they are inside bags or overhead bins will no longer be permitted,” Southwest said in a statement, emphasizing its commitment to passenger and crew safety.
In March, a Southwest flight crew reported a battery fire upon landing at Reno-Tahoe International Airport. The FAA is currently investigating the case.
The airline noted that the new rule will help flight attendants quickly detect and respond to potential battery issues. The FAA already mandates that lithium batteries be carried only in hand luggage, not in checked bags.
Since 2016, the International Civil Aviation Organization has banned lithium batteries in aircraft cargo holds due to fire risks.
Passengers are also required to remove power banks during security screening and keep them on their person throughout the flight.
