Introduction to New Policy

Southwest Airlines has announced a new policy requiring all passengers to keep portable device chargers in plain sight during flights while they are in use. This decision comes after a series of lithium-ion battery fires on flights worldwide in recent years.

Policy Details

The policy, set to start on May 28, mandates that passengers keep all portable chargers, including power banks and cell phone battery charging cases, out of overhead bins and bags under the seat in front of them when in use. Southwest Airlines emphasized the importance of safety, stating, "Using portable charging devices while stored in a bag or overhead bin will no longer be permitted. Nothing is more important to Southwest than the safety of its customers and employees."

Exceptions and Clarifications

Passengers are allowed to store portable chargers in their carry-on bags if they are not connected to any devices. However, any charger in active use must be kept visible for the entire flight. The TSA already prohibits rechargeable and non-rechargeable lithium batteries in checked baggage, but allows them in carry-on bags. Southwest Airlines’ new policy requires these chargers to be outside of all bags and visible when in use.

Industry Comparison

It remains to be seen if other U.S.-based airlines will follow Southwest’s lead, but other international airlines have implemented similar measures to mitigate fire hazards. Airlines such as Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways, and Korean Airlines have restrictions on the use of portable chargers on flights.

Statistics and Safety Precautions

According to the UL Standards & Engagement research group, the average U.S. passenger brings four rechargeable devices on a flight, with smartphones, laptops, wireless headphones, and tablets being the most common devices. Vaping devices and power banks are among the most common causes of incidents on flights. The FAA emphasizes that flight crews are trained to respond to lithium battery fires and advises passengers to notify the crew immediately if they notice any signs of overheating, expansion, smoking, or burning.

Conclusion

In the event of a fire on a flight, whether related to a battery or not, it is crucial to inform the flight crew promptly. This is a general safety precaution that can help prevent accidents and ensure a safe flight for all passengers.