Southwest Airlines' New Policy on Portable Charging Devices

SOURCE www.npr.org
Southwest Airlines will require passengers to keep battery packs and portable charging devices visible during flights starting May 28 as a safety measure to respond quickly to potential fires caused by lithium-ion batteries.

Key Points

  • Lithium-ion batteries in portable charging devices can occasionally overheat and catch fire
  • FAA data shows 22 incidents related to air travel this year involving lithium batteries
  • Southwest's policy requires passengers to keep portable chargers visible and not charge devices in overhead bins

Pros

  • Increased safety measures to prevent potential fires on flights
  • Allows crew members to respond quickly to any incidents involving portable chargers

Cons

  • Inconvenience for passengers who may now need to keep their charging devices visible during the flight
  • Possible resistance or confusion from passengers regarding the new policy