Southwest Airlines is tightening its rules regarding portable chargers on board its flights, responding to increasing safety concerns related to lithium battery fires. The airline aims to reduce the potential for incidents involving these devices.

New Restrictions Effective April 20

Starting April 20, passengers traveling on Southwest Airlines will be limited to carrying only one portable charger. These devices will no longer be permitted in overhead bins or checked luggage.

Policy Exceeds Industry Standards

Southwest’s policy goes beyond the recommendations set forth by the International Civil Aviation Organization. The airline is also encouraging passengers to keep their chargers visible during use, allowing flight attendants to quickly respond if overheating occurs. This proactive measure reflects a broader industry concern regarding lithium-ion batteries in air travel.

Growing Concerns Over Lithium Battery Incidents

The initiative stems from a growing awareness of the dangers posed by the increasing number of rechargeable electronic devices. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has reported a significant rise in lithium battery incidents, recording 97 in 2025.

This increase is linked to the widespread use of smartphones, tablets, laptops, and portable chargers, all powered by lithium-ion batteries. Organizations like the International Civil Aviation Organization and UL Standards & Engagement are closely monitoring the situation.

Airline Safety Measures

Airlines are adapting safety protocols to minimize risk. Flight attendants are now equipped with fire-resistant bags and insulated gloves to contain overheating devices. Southwest Airlines also plans to equip all its planes with in-seat power by mid-next year, reducing the need for portable chargers.

Proactive Approach to Passenger Safety

While Southwest won't actively search passengers’ bags for excess chargers, the policy will be communicated during booking and at the airport to raise awareness. Dave Hunt, Southwest’s VP of Safety and Security, stated the policy will strengthen the airline’s ability to manage and mitigate lithium battery-related incidents.

Aviation safety expert Steve Arroyo considers Southwest’s policy a positive step. The airline’s goal is to reduce the risk of battery fires, even though the number of incidents remains small compared to the approximately 100,000 flights occurring daily worldwide, the potential consequences are significant.