Southwest Airlines Enforces Charger Visibility to Prevent In-Flight Fires

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