You can no longer charge your device in Southwest Airlines carry-on bag. What you need to know
Southwest has changed its rules around portable chargers and power banks. Go ahead, if you want to charge your phone during flight, you need to be visible when using the power bank. This means you won't be able to charge your phone in a carry-on bag or overhead bin. New safety policies aim to reduce the risk of lithium-ion battery fires.
This change is in response to a series of events involving overheating of lithium-ion batteries. According to the Federal Aviation Administration, 22 battery-related incidents occurred in 2024 only after 89 such incidents were recorded in 2025 alone. It is worth noting that a fire broke out on a Korean Air plane in January – allegedly caused by a deteriorating insulation – resulted in the evacuation of 176 people, including 176 employees, including passengers and Crew.
Read more: The best way to pack your carry-on bag to pass through TSA lines
Although the FAA and the Transportation Safety Administration currently allow lithium-powered devices, such as e-cigarettes and power banks, they are forbidden to put them in checked baggage, they do not require portable chargers to be considered clear. Southwest Airlines' new policy has taken a step further, consistent with the practices already adopted by some Asian airlines, including Singapore Airlines, AirAsia and all Korean airlines, according to Reuters.
Southwest Airlines' move reflects the growing concern of the aviation industry for the safe transportation and use of lithium-ion batteries on aircraft. Passengers are encouraged to understand airline policies and handle electronic devices with caution to ensure a safe travel experience.
“Southwest will launch an industry safety policy on May 28 that requires customers to see portable charging devices when using during flights,” Southwest confirmed in a statement to CNET via email. “Using portable charging devices, although stored in bags or overhead bins, is no longer allowed. Nothing is more important to the safety of customers and employees in the Southwest than the Southwest.”
For more travel-related articles, explore the travel essentials you need for each holiday and check out this travel list. You should also read about the new real ID requirements for security through airports.
