Travelers will soon encounter new regulations regarding portable chargers on flights as airlines respond to increasing safety concerns related to lithium battery fires. Southwest Airlines has announced that effective April 20, passengers will be permitted to bring only one charger on board. Furthermore, these chargers must remain with travelers rather than being stored in overhead bins or checked luggage. The decision aims to enhance safety measures in light of rising incidents involving lithium batteries.
### New Regulations on Chargers
This policy aligns with the recommendations put forth by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), which recently suggested allowing up to two chargers per passenger. However, Southwest Airlines has opted for a more stringent approach. According to Dave Hunt, Vice President of Safety and Security at Southwest, the airline will not actively search bags for compliance but will instead communicate these restrictions during the booking process and at check-in. The airline hopes to educate passengers about the potential hazards associated with lithium batteries.
Jeff Marootian, CEO of UL Standards & Engagement, highlighted a general lack of awareness among travelers regarding the risks posed by these devices. He noted that as more people bring portable electronics aboard flights, the number of reported incidents has risen. In his view, improving traveler education will be crucial in mitigating these safety issues.
### Increasing Incident Reports
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has documented a steady rise in incidents involving lithium batteries, registering 97 occurrences in 2025 alone. The increase is attributed to the growing number of rechargeable devices that passengers carry, including smartphones, laptops, and portable battery packs. Marootian noted that UL Standards & Engagement has reported receiving information about two such incidents weekly, with a dramatic 42% increase in occurrences involving portable chargers.
One notable incident occurred in January 2025 when a fire broke out aboard an Air Busan plane waiting for takeoff from a South Korean airport. The fire, linked to a lithium battery, required the evacuation of all 176 passengers on board and caused substantial damage to the aircraft.
### Safety Measures on Board
In response to these safety challenges, flight attendants are equipped with fire-resistant bags and insulated gloves to safely handle overheating devices. Hunt emphasized that Southwest’s new rules will enhance the airline’s ability to manage potential battery-related incidents effectively. He underscored the importance of reducing the risk of fires that could lead to catastrophic outcomes.
To further facilitate traveler compliance with these new regulations, Southwest has announced plans to install in-seat power sources across its fleet by the middle of next year. This improvement aims to lessen the reliance on personal chargers during flights, thereby aligning with safety goals.
### Expert Opinions on Policy Impact
Veteran aviation safety expert Steve Arroyo, who spent 37 years as a pilot for United Airlines, expressed support for Southwest’s new policy. While the overall number of fire incidents remains relatively low compared to the approximately 100,000 daily flights worldwide, Arroyo acknowledged that the repercussions of a lithium battery fire could be severe. He stated, “It can turn into something very serious very quickly,” emphasizing the importance of proactive measures.
As airlines like Southwest Airlines implement these measures, travelers are encouraged to stay informed about new regulations and safety protocols. By adopting these guidelines, airlines aim not only to protect passengers but also to ensure the overall safety of air travel. The initiative reflects a growing recognition of the need for vigilance in addressing the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries in a rapidly evolving landscape of personal electronic devices.
Source: Original Reporting
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