Why Southwest Airlines Bans Portable Chargers in Carry-On Bags (New 2025 Rule Explained)

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While travelers can still bring power banks on board, they must be turned off and kept visible at all times. This proactive move goes beyond FAA guidelines, aiming to address the increasing number of in-flight lithium battery fires. Here’s everything you need to know—why the policy was implemented, how it affects travelers, and what steps you should take to stay compliant and safe.

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Southwest Airlines Portable Charger Policy

What Is Southwest Airlines’ New Rule on Portable Chargers?

Southwest Airlines is now the first U.S. carrier to prohibit the use of portable chargers inside carry-on bags during flight. Passengers may still bring these devices onboard, but:

• They must remain powered off if stored.

• They must be placed in visible locations, such as tray tables or seat pockets, when in use.

• Charging devices inside bags or overhead bins is strictly forbidden.

The policy is effective as of May 28, 2025, and was created to reduce the risk of lithium-ion battery fires onboard.

Why Are Power Banks a Safety Risk?

At the heart of this policy is the safety risk posed by lithium-ion batteries, commonly found in:

• Power banks

• Smartphones

• Tablets and laptops

• Wireless headphones

• E-cigarettes

These batteries can overheat and enter thermal runaway—a dangerous chain reaction where temperature and pressure spike uncontrollably, releasing flammable gases. This can lead to smoke, fire, or even explosions, especially in a pressurized aircraft cabin.

FAA data shows over 620 battery-related fire incidents on U.S. flights since 2006. Of those, 240 involved portable battery packs specifically.

Video - Southwest Airlines passenger punches flight attendant, knocking out 2 teeth:

How Does Southwest's Rule Go Beyond FAA and TSA Guidelines?

Both the FAA and TSA already ban lithium batteries from checked baggage, but allow them in carry-on luggage. However, these agencies don’t require the batteries to be visible or powered off.

Southwest Airlines is stepping ahead by enforcing:

• Mandatory visibility of all power banks during use

• Strictly no charging while inside any bag

• Immediate accessibility for crew to respond to potential overheating events

This aligns with international precedents: Air Busan, Singapore Airlines, and Qantas have adopted similar measures after lithium-related fires.

Real Incidents That Sparked Stricter Policies

The rise in battery fires is not theoretical—it’s happening more often and more dangerously:

• March 2025 – A laptop battery ignited mid-flight on Southwest, causing minor injuries and cabin smoke.

• April 2025 – A power bank exploded on an American Airlines flight, prompting an emergency landing.

• January 2025 – A phone caught fire on a United Airlines plane; flight attendants used a thermal containment bag to avoid escalation.

In 2024 alone, the FAA recorded 81 battery-related events, averaging 1.6 incidents per week.

What Passengers Need to Do

To comply with Southwest’s updated portable charger policy:

• Use power banks only when placed in seat pockets or tray tables

• Turn them off if storing in any type of bag

• Do not charge any device from a power bank inside a bag or overhead bin

• Do not hide power banks under seats or in closed compartments

These rules apply across all flights and may be enforced with gate announcements, cabin crew instructions, and visual checks.

Industry Trends: A New Normal for Air Travel?

Southwest Airlines isn’t alone in tightening rules on personal electronic devices. Other carriers have followed suit after dramatic incidents:

• Air Busan saw a power bank-triggered fire onboard in early 2025

• Singapore Airlines warns passengers not to use power banks while in bags

• Qantas enforces battery device checks before boarding

As airlines grapple with the rising threat of tech-related onboard fires, the industry is shifting from passive rules to proactive prevention.

FAQs: Southwest Airlines Portable Charger Policy

Q: Can I bring a portable charger on a Southwest flight?

Yes. You may carry power banks in your carry-on luggage, but not in checked bags.

Q: Can I use my power bank during the flight?

Yes, but only if it is placed visibly on a tray table or seat pocket. It cannot be charging while inside a bag.

Q: Why can’t I keep it in my backpack while charging my phone?

If a battery overheats inside a bag, it may go unnoticed—delaying emergency response. Visibility allows fast action.

Q: Is this policy permanent?

Southwest has not announced an end date. The policy is in place indefinitely and may influence other airlines.

Q: Will TSA enforce this policy at security checkpoints?

TSA checks for prohibited items, but enforcement of this rule primarily happens at the gate and during flight by Southwest staff.

Final Takeaway

As the number of lithium-ion battery fires continues to rise, Southwest Airlines' portable charger policy is a clear signal that safety now takes precedence over convenience. Travelers should adjust how they carry and use electronics onboard. It’s a small change that could prevent a major in-flight emergency.

By understanding and following these guidelines, passengers not only comply with airline policy—they contribute to a safer sky for all.

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