Regulations & Safety
Southwest Airlines Enforces Charger Visibility to Prevent In-Flight Fires
Southwest’s 2025 policy requires visible chargers during flights to address lithium battery fire risks. FAA reports 19+ incidents in 2025, prompting industry-wide safety reviews.
Southwest Airlines’ New Charger Visibility Policy: A Response to Lithium Battery Fire Risks
In an era where portable devices are ubiquitous, the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries have become an increasing concern for the aviation industry. Southwest Airlines, one of the largest low-cost carriers in the United States, recently announced a new policy requiring passengers to keep portable chargers visible during flights. The initiative, which takes effect on May 28, 2025, is the first of its kind in the airline industry and aims to mitigate fire hazards associated with lithium battery-powered devices.
This move comes in the wake of a growing number of battery-related incidents aboard commercial flights. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), there have been at least 19 such incidents in 2025 alone. These events range from overheating to small onboard fires, prompting airlines and regulatory bodies to rethink existing safety protocols. Southwest’s policy marks a proactive step toward enhancing onboard safety through visibility and early detection.
As the use of portable electronics continues to grow, so does the complexity of managing their safety risks. This article explores the rationale behind Southwest’s new policy, the broader industry context, and what it means for passengers, airlines, and regulators moving forward.
Understanding the Lithium Battery Risk
What Makes Lithium-Ion Batteries Risky?
Lithium-ion batteries are the power source behind most modern portable electronics, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and power banks. While generally safe, these batteries can pose significant hazards under certain conditions, such as overheating, physical damage, or manufacturing defects. One of the most dangerous outcomes is thermal runaway—a process where the battery’s internal temperature rapidly increases, potentially leading to fire or explosion.
In the confined environment of an aircraft cabin, even a minor fire can escalate quickly. This is particularly concerning when chargers are stored in carry-on bags or overhead compartments, where any signs of malfunction may go unnoticed by the crew. The FAA currently prohibits spare lithium-ion batteries in checked luggage, but Southwest’s policy extends this by focusing on in-use devices during flight.
The FAA’s data underscores the urgency of the issue. In 2024, there were 89 incidents involving lithium batteries during air travel, marking a 16% increase from the previous year. These incidents have prompted not only U.S. airlines but also international carriers to reassess safety measures related to portable electronics.
“Nothing is more important to Southwest than the Safety of its Customers and Employees,” Southwest Airlines statement, May 2025
Southwest’s Policy: What It Entails
Southwest Airlines’ new policy mandates that passengers keep portable chargers and power banks visible while in use during a flight. Specifically, passengers are prohibited from using these devices while they are stored in bags or overhead bins. Instead, they must be placed in plain sight, allowing flight attendants to monitor for signs of malfunction such as smoke, heat, or unusual odors.
This visibility requirement is designed to enable quicker response times in the event of a battery incident. If a device begins to overheat, crew members can act swiftly to contain the situation, potentially preventing a fire from spreading. The airline has emphasized that this is a “first-in-industry” safety measure, reflecting its commitment to proactive risk management.
Passengers are encouraged to use only certified charging devices and avoid charging electronics in confined or poorly ventilated spaces, such as seat pockets or beneath blankets. The airline has updated its website with detailed guidelines on battery safety and compliance expectations.
Global Trends and Regulatory Context
Southwest is not alone in addressing the risks posed by lithium-ion batteries. Airlines in countries such as South Korea, Malaysia, and Thailand have also implemented restrictions on power bank usage during flights. In January 2025, a fire onboard an Air Busan flight was attributed to a portable charger, prompting a full evacuation and further scrutiny of battery safety protocols.
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has issued global guidelines for the safe transport of lithium batteries, and the FAA continues to update its recommendations based on incident data. However, enforcement and specific policies vary by airline and jurisdiction, leading to a patchwork of regulations that can be confusing for international travelers.
As the global market for portable chargers reached an estimated $16 billion in 2024, the scale of potential risk is significant. The sheer volume of devices being carried onboard commercial flights highlights the need for consistent and enforceable safety standards across the aviation industry.
Expert Perspectives and Industry Implications
Expert Opinions on the Policy
Experts in battery safety and aviation have largely welcomed Southwest’s new policy, viewing it as a sensible and timely response to a known risk. Dr. Emily Carter, a researcher at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), noted that visibility is a critical factor in early detection. “Visibility policies help crew members detect early signs of battery overheating, such as smoke or unusual heat, allowing for quicker intervention,” she said. “However, comprehensive safety also depends on passenger education and the use of certified charging devices.”
Captain Mark Reynolds, a veteran pilot and safety consultant, echoed this sentiment. “While the risk of lithium battery fires is relatively low, the consequences can be severe. Airlines must balance operational feasibility with safety, and policies like Southwest’s are a sensible compromise.”
These perspectives underscore the broader challenge faced by airlines: managing the tension between passenger convenience and safety. As more devices are brought onboard, the need for clear, enforceable policies becomes increasingly important.
Opportunities and Challenges for Implementation
Implementing a charger visibility policy presents logistical challenges. Flight attendants must be trained to recognize signs of battery failure and to enforce the policy consistently across all flights. Additionally, passengers may initially be unaware of the new rules, requiring effective communication through pre-flight announcements, signage, and online resources.
There is also the question of compliance. Unlike carry-on size restrictions, which are easily measurable, determining whether a charger is “visible” may be more subjective. Airlines will need to develop clear criteria and empower their staff to make judgment calls in real-time.
Despite these hurdles, the benefits of early detection and rapid response are compelling. By making chargers visible, Southwest aims to reduce the time between the onset of a battery malfunction and the crew’s ability to respond, potentially averting serious incidents.
Broader Implications for the Airline Industry
Southwest’s policy may signal a shift in how airlines approach onboard battery safety. Other carriers are likely to observe the outcomes and consider similar measures, particularly if the policy proves effective in preventing incidents. Regulatory bodies may also use this as a case study to inform future guidelines and international standards.
For manufacturers, the increased scrutiny may drive demand for safer battery technologies and improved certification processes. As manufacturers and regulators push for higher safety standards, the electronics industry will face pressure to innovate and ensure compliance.
Ultimately, these developments reflect a broader trend: the intersection of technology, safety, and regulation in a rapidly evolving travel landscape. As devices become more powerful and portable, the systems designed to manage their risks must evolve in tandem.
Conclusion
Southwest Airlines’ decision to require visible chargers during flight represents a proactive and considered response to a growing safety concern. With at least 19 lithium battery incidents reported by the FAA in 2025 alone, the airline’s new policy is both timely and necessary. By mandating visibility, Southwest aims to empower its crew to respond swiftly to potential hazards, minimizing the risk to passengers and aircraft.
As other airlines and regulators evaluate similar strategies, this policy could become a benchmark for future safety protocols. The success of such measures will depend not only on enforcement but also on passenger awareness and industry cooperation. In a world increasingly reliant on portable power, safety must remain at the forefront of innovation and policy-making.
FAQ
Why is Southwest requiring chargers to be visible during flights?
To enhance safety by allowing flight attendants to quickly detect and respond to any signs of battery overheating or malfunction.
Can I still bring a power bank on a Southwest flight?
Yes, but if you use it during the flight, it must be kept out of bags and in plain sight.
Are other airlines adopting similar policies?
Some international airlines have implemented restrictions, and others are reviewing policies in light of recent incidents.
Sources
- FoxNews
- AP News
- FAA
- NIST
- ICAO
- Market Research 2024
Photo Credit: DallasMorningNews
Regulations & Safety
Thales to Upgrade Slovenian Airspace with New Radar System by 2027
Thales partners with Slovenia Control to install advanced co-mounted radar system enhancing air traffic surveillance and cybersecurity by mid-2027.
This article is based on an official press release from Thales Group.
On May 27, 2026, French aerospace and defense technology company Thales announced a major contracts with Slovenia Control, the national Air Navigation Services Provider (ANSP) for Slovenia. According to the official press release, the agreement covers the delivery and installation of a co-mounted primary and secondary surveillance radar system designed to modernize the country’s air traffic management capabilities.
The new infrastructure, slated for deployment by mid-2027, aims to provide continuous, redundant 24/7 surveillance of Slovenian airspace. As European flight volumes continue to climb past pre-pandemic levels, ANSPs are increasingly tasked with upgrading legacy systems to handle denser, more complex traffic flows safely.
We note that this upgrade aligns with the latest EUROCONTROL and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) recommendations, ensuring Slovenia remains fully compliant with European Mode S Station (EMS) standards while bolstering its defenses against modern cyber threats.
Upgrading Slovenia’s Airspace Infrastructure
Building on a 30-Year Partnership
Thales and Slovenia Control have collaborated for nearly three decades. The press release highlights that Thales has previously supplied the ANSP with various Air Traffic Management (ATM) solutions, including Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADS-B) systems, Instrument Landing Systems (ILS), and an upgraded Air Traffic Services Message Handling System (AMHS). Additionally, Thales previously won a tender to deliver and install a wide area multilateration (WAM) system at Ljubljana Joze Pucnik Airport.
For this latest project, the new radar system will be mounted on a newly constructed 30-meter tower. To ensure uninterrupted and reliable operation during severe weather conditions, the equipment will be enclosed within a protective radome.
Next-Generation Radar-Systems
STAR NG and RSM NG Capabilities
The contract specifies a “co-mounted” configuration, integrating two distinct but complementary radar technologies on the same physical structure to track both cooperative (transponder-equipped) and non-cooperative aircraft.
The primary surveillance radar, the STAR NG, is an S-Band system tailored for Approach Control. It offers a surveillance range of up to 80 nautical miles and detects physical objects without relying on aircraft transponders. Notably, the STAR NG features advanced clutter reduction technology to filter out interference from wind farms and 4G mobile communication networks. It is also capable of detecting small, slow-moving targets such as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and Drones.
Operating alongside it is the RSM NG, a digital secondary surveillance radar described by Thales as a “Meta Sensor.” This system communicates with aircraft transponders to gather identity, altitude, and speed data. It combines Monopulse Secondary Surveillance Radar (MSSR) architecture with fully integrated, redundant ADS-B. According to the provided technical specifications, the RSM NG can track up to 2,000 aircraft per scan and conduct simultaneous Mode S interrogations.
Cybersecurity at the Forefront
With critical aviation infrastructure increasingly targeted by digital threats, both radar systems are engineered to be “cybersecure by design.” The RSM NG utilizes a cybersecurity framework based on National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standards. It incorporates a virtual machine designed to preserve the radar’s operational behavior while actively protecting the system against jamming, spoofing, and unauthorized cyber intrusions.
“We are honoured that Slovenia Control has once again placed its trust in Thales with the order of this new co-mounted air traffic control radar. This contract reflects not only our commitment to delivering advanced radar surveillance solutions, but also the strength of our long-standing Partnerships in ensuring safe and efficient air operations across Europe.”
, Lionel de Castellane, Vice President of Thales’ Air Traffic Control radars segment, via company press release.
“We are pleased to take this important step forward together with our partner Thales, with whom we share a common goal: safe, efficient and modern air traffic management. This cooperation further strengthens our commitment to continuously enhancing the safety and performance of air navigation services in Slovenia and beyond.”
, Rok Marolt, CEO of Slovenia Control, Ltd., via company press release.
Industry Context: The Pressure on European Skies
The necessity of this infrastructure upgrade is underscored by current European air traffic trends. According to EUROCONTROL’s Spring 2026 forecast cited in the provided research data, European air traffic fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels in 2025, recording 11.05 million flights.
Despite geopolitical disruptions, traffic within the European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC) area is projected to grow by an additional 2.7% in 2026, reaching approximately 11.3 million flights. This rising volume places immense strain on the European airspace network. In May 2026, EUROCONTROL reported that Air Traffic Control (ATC) capacity and staffing issues accounted for 44% of all en-route delays across Europe.
AirPro News analysis
As the skies become more crowded, structural capacity limits are being severely tested. ANSPs like Slovenia Control are effectively forced to invest in high-precision, automated, and redundant surveillance technologies. Systems like the STAR NG and RSM NG combination are critical for safely reducing aircraft separation distances and managing complex traffic flows efficiently. Furthermore, the specific capability to filter out modern airspace “noise”, such as drone proliferation, wind farms, and 4G interference, demonstrates how technological leaps are required just to maintain baseline safety in an increasingly congested and digitized airspace.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a co-mounted radar system?
A co-mounted radar system integrates two different types of radar, typically a primary radar (which bounces radio waves off physical objects) and a secondary radar (which communicates with aircraft transponders), onto the same physical tower or structure. This provides comprehensive tracking of both cooperative and non-cooperative aircraft.
When will the new radar system in Slovenia be operational?
According to the Thales press release, the new radar system is scheduled to be delivered and installed by mid-2027.
Why is cybersecurity important for air traffic control radars?
Modern air traffic control relies heavily on digital data and automated systems. Protecting these systems from jamming, spoofing (broadcasting fake aircraft signals), and cyber intrusions is critical to preventing airspace disruptions and ensuring passenger safety.
Sources: Thales Group Press Release
Photo Credit: Thales Group
Regulations & Safety
FAA Proposes $336,000 Fine Against Planet Nine Private Air
The FAA alleges Planet Nine Private Air misclassified 21 international commercial charter flights, proposing a $336,000 civil penalty.
This article is based on an official press release from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed a $336,000 civil penalty against Planet Nine Private Air, a luxury private jets operator based in Van Nuys, California. The agency alleges that the company intentionally misclassified a series of international commercial charter flights to bypass strict regulatory requirements.
According to the FAA’s May 28, 2026, press release, the enforcement action targets operations conducted between November 2023 and August 2024. The agency claims that Planet Nine filed inaccurate flight plans for 21 passenger flights, labeling them as general aviation rather than commercial charter operations.
This alleged misclassification allowed the operator to circumvent the need for specific overflight and landing permits from foreign aviation authorities. The FAA’s enforcement letter emphasizes the severity of these actions, noting that the company failed to follow its own internal procedures during these international routes.
Details of the FAA Allegations
The core of the FAA’s allegations revolves around the strict regulatory boundaries that separate private flying from paid passenger transport. By filing the 21 flights in question as general aviation, Planet Nine allegedly avoided the rigorous oversight and international permitting processes required for commercial operators.
The FAA alleges that the luxury private jet operator violated international aviation regulations by intentionally misclassifying commercial charter flights… and operating in a “careless and reckless manner.”
In addition to the misclassification, the FAA states that Planet Nine failed to adhere to its own Oceanic and International Procedures Manual. The agency views the circumvention of these established safety and operational protocols as a serious breach of aviation regulations.
International Scope and Procedural Failures
The 21 flights cited in the FAA’s enforcement letter highlight a broad international scope. According to the provided research report, the operations took place between the United States and eight foreign nations: Canada, Costa Rica, the Czech Republic, France, Germany, Ireland, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.
Operating commercial charters in these jurisdictions typically requires extensive documentation, costly fees, and significant lead times for approval. The FAA alleges that by misidentifying the flights, Planet Nine bypassed these international bureaucratic requirements entirely.
Industry Context and Company Background
Planet Nine Private Air, often branded as Planet 9, is a boutique charter and aircraft management company. Co-founded in 2018 by CEO Matt Walter and Director of Operations James Seagrim, the company operates a “floating fleet” of ultra-long-range business jets, including Dassault Falcon 7Xs, Bombardier Global series, and Gulfstream G550/G650s.
Historically, the operator has touted high safety standards, holding an FAA Part 135 operating certificate alongside Wyvern Wingman and ARGUS Platinum safety ratings. The company maintains a presence in London and New York, in addition to its California headquarters.
The Regulatory Divide: Part 91 vs. Part 135
Understanding the FAA’s proposed penalty requires distinguishing between Part 91 and Part 135 regulations. General aviation (Part 91) governs private, non-commercial flights, which generally face fewer regulatory hurdles and faster approval times for international routing.
Conversely, commercial charter operations (Part 135) involve paying passengers and are subject to much stricter safety, maintenance, and crew rest regulations. Foreign governments mandate that Part 135 operators secure specific permits, which demand rigorous oversight. The FAA’s categorization of Planet Nine’s actions as “careless and reckless” stems from the alleged intentional evasion of these commercial safety standards.
Next Steps for Planet Nine
Following the receipt of the FAA’s enforcement letter, Planet Nine Private Air has a 30-day window to formally respond to the agency. The company has several legal avenues available to address the proposed civil penalty.
The operator can choose to pay the $336,000 fine, attempt to negotiate a settlement with the FAA, or formally contest the allegations and the penalty amount through an administrative legal process.
AirPro News analysis
We note that this proposed $336,000 fine underscores the FAA’s ongoing commitment to strictly enforcing the boundaries between Part 91 and Part 135 operations, particularly in complex international airspace. While Planet Nine Private Air is a well-established operator with premium safety ratings, these allegations highlight the immense logistical pressures and costs associated with global commercial charters.
If the FAA successfully levies this penalty, it will likely serve as a strong deterrent to other boutique charter operators. The enforcement action sends a clear message that the agency is actively monitoring international flight plan accuracy and will penalize attempts to bypass the bureaucratic and financial requirements of commercial aviation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the proposed fine against Planet Nine Private Air?
The FAA has proposed a civil penalty of $336,000.
How many flights are involved in the allegations?
The FAA alleges that 21 international flights were misclassified between November 2023 and August 2024.
What is the difference between Part 91 and Part 135?
Part 91 regulations govern private, general aviation flights with fewer regulatory hurdles. Part 135 regulations govern commercial charter flights, requiring stricter safety oversight, maintenance standards, and specific international permits.
Sources
Photo Credit: Planet Nine Private Air
Regulations & Safety
TSB Reports Fatal 2023 Helicopter Accident During Maintenance Run
TSB Canada details a fatal 2023 helicopter accident at Smithers Airport caused by skipped checklists and pilot distraction. Mustang Helicopters updates safety policies.
This article is based on an official press release from the Transportation Safety Board of Canada.
On May 27, 2026, the Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) released its final investigation report (A23P0040) detailing the circumstances surrounding a fatal incident that occurred three years prior. The incident, which took place on May 6, 2023, at Smithers Airport (CYYD) in British Columbia, involved an Airbus Helicopters AS 350 B3 operated by Mustang Helicopters Inc.
According to the official TSB press release and accompanying report, the accident occurred during a maintenance ground run, resulting in the death of one ground worker and serious injuries to another. The investigation highlights critical safety issues, specifically the severe dangers of procedural complacency and digital distraction in the cockpit during ground operations.
The Incident at Smithers Airport
Maintenance Ground Run Turns Fatal
The TSB report outlines that on the day of the accident, the Airbus AS 350 B3 helicopter (registration C-GUXR) was undergoing maintenance ground run operations. The specific procedure was designed to balance the tail rotor drive shaft, a highly technical task that requires the helicopter’s rotor system to be operated at nearly full RPM.
During the third maintenance ground run of the day, the aircraft suddenly entered an uncommanded and rapid rotation. At the time, two maintenance staff members were positioned on the ground near the helicopter’s left cargo door to monitor the balancing equipment. As the helicopter spun out of control, both workers attempted to evade the aircraft but were struck multiple times by the tail rotor. Tragically, one worker was fatally injured at the scene, while the other sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to a local hospital.
The TSB investigation notes that the pilot eventually managed to move the engine control to IDLE, shut off the fuel supply, and apply the rotor brake. The helicopter came to a rest after rotating approximately 540 degrees. The aircraft remained upright throughout the event, and no post-impact fire occurred.
Investigation Findings and Human Factors
Skipped Checklists and Unseen Hazards
In its analysis of the events leading up to the uncommanded rotation, the TSB identified several critical human factors and procedural deviations. Following the first maintenance run of the day, the pilot abbreviated the operator’s official checklist to expedite the process.
The pilot abbreviated the operator’s official checklist to expedite the process, viewing the task as “routine and repetitive.”
According to the TSB, this deviation meant that crucial safety steps were missed. Specifically, pressure was left in the hydraulic system, and the right anti-torque pedal remained engaged in a fully forward position. Because the checklist was skipped, this critical hazard went completely undetected prior to the third engine start.
The Role of Digital Distraction
A central finding of the TSB report is the role of digital distraction in the cockpit. Investigators found that the pilot’s attention was split between the highly sensitive maintenance operation and a cellphone, which was connected to a Bluetooth earpiece.
Because the pilot was looking down when the rapid rotation began, he was not expecting the sudden movement. The TSB concluded that his delayed response to the rotational yaw force was insufficient to stop the helicopter from spinning quickly. Investigators emphasized that the minimal time saved by skipping the official checklist was negligible and ultimately contributed to the fatal outcome.
Industry Implications and Safety Actions
Regulatory Blind Spots
The TSB report highlights a significant regulatory gap within the Canadian aviation framework. Currently, there are no Transport Canada regulations that explicitly prohibit the use of cellphones or personal electronic devices in the cockpit during operations.
The safety board has previously identified the severe risks associated with cellphone use in aviation accidents, noting that electronic devices can fatally divert a pilot’s attention from activities necessary for safe operations. The TSB presents this incident as a grim case study on the dangers of complacency during ground operations, which are often falsely perceived by crews as lower-risk than active flight.
Operator Corrective Measures
Following the tragic occurrence, Mustang Helicopters Inc. implemented several corrective safety measures aimed at preventing future incidents. According to the TSB report, the company introduced a strict new distraction policy that explicitly requires the stowing of all electronic devices during operations.
Additionally, Mustang Helicopters added a new standard operating procedure (SOP) specifically tailored for maintenance ground runs to its operations manual. The company also thoroughly revised and strengthened its hazard assessments and safety briefings for both maintenance personnel and pilots.
AirPro News analysis
We note that this tragic event underscores a critical vulnerability in modern aviation operations: the intrusion of personal electronics into safety-critical environments. While active flight operations often command a pilot’s full attention, ground operations, such as maintenance runs, can falsely appear lower-risk, inviting a dangerous level of complacency. The TSB’s findings suggest that regulatory bodies like Transport Canada may need to urgently modernize their frameworks to explicitly address digital distractions. Ensuring that the cockpit remains a sterile, focused environment, even when the aircraft is firmly on the ground, is paramount to preventing similar tragedies in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What caused the helicopter to spin during the maintenance run?
According to the TSB, the pilot skipped portions of the checklist, leaving hydraulic pressure in the system and the right anti-torque pedal in a fully forward position. When the engine was started for the third run, this caused an uncommanded and rapid rotation of the aircraft.
Why didn’t the pilot stop the rotation immediately?
The TSB investigation found that the pilot was distracted by a cellphone connected to a Bluetooth earpiece and was looking down when the rotation began. This distraction led to a delayed and insufficient reaction to the sudden yaw force.
Are pilots allowed to use cellphones in the cockpit in Canada?
The TSB report highlights that there are currently no Transport Canada regulations explicitly prohibiting the use of cellphones or personal electronic devices in the cockpit during operations, identifying this as a significant regulatory blind spot.
Sources
Photo Credit: TSB
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