Southwest Airlines limits portable chargers on flights to prevent lithium battery fires
AP News • • business
Key Points:
- Southwest Airlines will limit passengers to carrying only one portable charger on flights starting April 20, prohibiting storage in overhead bins or checked luggage to reduce lithium battery fire risks.
- The airline will not rigorously enforce the rule through searches but will emphasize the policy during booking and airport check-in to raise awareness about potential dangers.
- Lithium battery incidents on planes are increasing, with the FAA reporting 97 cases in 2025 and a 42% rise in portable charger-related incidents, highlighting growing safety concerns.
- Southwest plans to install in-seat power outlets on all planes by mid-2025 to accommodate passengers' charging needs while adhering to safety measures.
- Aviation experts view the new policy as a positive step in mitigating fire risks, noting that while incidents are rare, the consequences of a lithium battery fire can be severe.
