Daniel Mercer
Southwest Airlines is implementing new restrictions on the number of portable chargers and power banks that passengers can bring on board flights. This decision comes from an internal message obtained by the New York Times, highlighting the airline’s commitment to enhancing flight safety as it pertains to lithium battery technology.
Starting April 20th, travelers will only be permitted to carry one lithium battery-powered portable charger per person. Additionally, passengers will not be allowed to recharge these devices using in-seat power outlets, nor will they be permitted to stow them in the overhead compartments. Instead, travelers are advised to keep their portable chargers with them throughout the flight or safely store them in a carry-on bag positioned under their seats.
Lithium batteries are integral to powering many of the devices we rely on daily, including smartphones, laptops, and e-cigarettes. These batteries are also the driving force behind portable chargers and power banks. While they generally function without issues, there exists a risk of fire if these batteries become damaged, overcharged, or overheated. The chemical composition within these batteries can lead to flames that are challenging to extinguish.
Due to the heightened risk associated with lithium batteries, airlines have long prohibited these items from being placed in checked luggage. Instead, travelers have been required to carry portable chargers and other lithium battery-powered devices in their carry-on luggage to ensure safety during flights.
Despite these precautions, data from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reveals there were 97 incidents related to lithium batteries in aviation during 2025, with 14 incidents reported already in the current year. The majority of these incidents involving smoke, fire, or extreme heat can be traced back to portable chargers. E-cigarettes were identified as the second leading cause of such incidents, according to FAA statistics.
A notable incident occurred in January 2025, when an Airbus aircraft ignited on the tarmac at an airport in Busan, South Korea. All passengers had to evacuate, and it took approximately an hour for firefighters to bring the blaze under control. Investigations revealed that a power bank stored in an overhead bin might have triggered the fire. Shortly thereafter, an Air China flight was forced to make an emergency landing due to a lithium battery that spontaneously combusted mid-flight while stored in an overhead compartment.
In response to safety concerns, Chinese regulators have banned portable batteries from flights unless they are clearly marked with a Chinese safety certification and have not been subject to recalls. Many international airlines have followed suit by prohibiting passengers from using or charging portable chargers. However, Southwest Airlines has emerged as the only major U.S. airline to introduce such stringent restrictions on these devices.
To safeguard against the risk of spontaneous fires from portable chargers, it is crucial to stay informed about product recalls. For instance, Anker, a prominent manufacturer of power banks, has issued several recalls in the past year due to potential fire hazards associated with their products.
Ethan Carter
