Southwest Airlines is implementing a new safety rule starting May 28, requiring passengers to keep portable charging devices visible during use on flights. The policy aims to reduce the risks associated with thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries, a process where a battery’s temperature rises uncontrollably, potentially leading to fires or explosions. This decision follows a recent incident on a JetBlue flight where a power bank overheated and sparked a fire in the cabin of a flight traveling from Florida to the Bahamas, as reported by Business Insider.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has highlighted the dangers of lithium-ion batteries, noting that thermal runaway can occur due to various factors, including physical damage, exposure to water, overcharging, or poor battery protection. The airline’s new policy mandates that power banks must be kept out of carry-on luggage and overhead bins during use, ensuring they are visible to flight attendants and passengers. Southwest Airlines has emphasized its commitment to passenger and employee safety, stating that the measures are essential to mitigate potential risks.
Passengers have already received notifications about the new regulation through the airline’s mobile app, indicating that the policy is being communicated proactively. In the