Beginning on May 28, Southwest Airlines will start requiring people to keep their lightweight phone chargers and power banks apparent while traveling. In an effort to reduce the risk of lithium-ion power fires, the airline may prohibit the use of these items while they are kept in carry-on luggage or overhead bins.

This policy change was made in response to a number of incidents involving lithium-ion chargers overheating. There were 22 battery-related instances on planes in 2025 only, according to the Federal Aviation Administration, compared to a report 89 in 2024. Notable: 176 people, including passengers and crew, were forced to leave an Air Busan journey in South Korea in January after a fire that was thought to have been brought on by a power banks with deteriorating insulation.

The Best Way to Package Your Carry-On Bag to Breeze Through TSA Lines, by &nbsp,

While carry-on luggage with lithium-powered devices like e-cigarettes and power banks is officially permitted in checked bags but prohibited in checked bags, the FAA and TSA do not require that convenient chargers been kept in plain sight. According to Reuters, Southwest’s new scheme goes one step further, reversing methods currently being used by some Asia-based companies, including Singapore Airlines, AirAsia, and all North Korean flights, &nbsp.

The safe transport and use of lithium-ion batteries on airplanes are a growing concern in the aviation industry as a result of Southwest Airlines ‘ decision. Travelers are advised to stay informed about airline regulations and to use caution when handling electronic devices to ensure a safe travel experience.

Southwest Airlines confirmed in a statement to CNET via email that” Southwest will introduce a first-in-industry safety policy in place on May 28 requiring customers to keep portable charging devices visible while in use during flight.” It will be prohibited to use portable charging devices while stored in a bag or overhead bin. Nothing is more important to Southwest than the safety of its employees and customers.

Explore these&nbsp, travel essentials you need for every vacation&nbsp, and then take a look at&nbsp, this travel checklist for more travel-related articles. You should also read about the new Real ID requirement for airport security, as well as the other options.