You cannot charge the devices in your portable bag on southwestern Airlines anymore. What you need to know

South west of its airlines It changed its rules around Multiple charging devices and Power banks. Moving forward if you want to impose fees phone During the trip, your power bank should be visible when using. This means that you will not be able to charge your phone inside your portable bag or upper boxes. The new safety policy aims to reduce the risk of lithium -ion battery fires.

This change comes in response to a series of incidents that involve the high temperature of lithium ion batteries. According to the Federal Aviation AdministrationThere were 22 accidents linked to the battery on flights in 2025 alone, following a record number 89 such in 2024. In particular, a fire on Busan’s flight in South Korea in January-was suspected of being Causing By an electric bank with a deterioration insulation – led to The evacuation of 176 peopleIncluding passengers and crew.

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While the Federal Aviation Administration and the Transport Security Administration currently allow lithium -powered devices such as electronic cigarettes and energy banks in reserved luggage, but they prevent them in specific bags, they do not stipulate that portable charging will be kept in sight. The new SouthWest policy is a step forward, compatible with the practices adopted by some Asia -based transportation companies, including Singapore Airlines, Airaasia, and all South Korean airlines, According to Reuters.

This step by southwestern airlines reflects a growing concern in the aviation industry with regard to safe transportation and the use of lithium ion batteries on board. Passengers are encouraged to stay aware of flight policies and deal carefully with electronic devices to ensure a safe travel experience.

“Southwest will provide a first safety policy in the industry on May 28 and ask customers to maintain visualization of mobile charging devices while using it during the trip,” SouthWest Airlines confirmed in a CNET statement via email. “It will not be allowed to use portable charging devices while storing them in a bag or upper box. There is nothing more important in the southwest than the safety of its customers and employees.”

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