- Southwest Airlines recently implemented a rule regarding the use portable chargers during flights.
- Starting May 28, all passengers must use their chargers in plain sight.
- Airlines based in Asia have banned portable chargers.
One airline has made a major shift after dozens of safety incidents and recalls involving portable chargers that exploded.
Southwest Airlines Passengers must now keep their portable chargers out of bags and storage areas when they are in use. Battery packs, which are used to charge electronics or phones, have become increasingly popular with travelers. Some of these devices, however, have been recalled due to their hazardous effects or were recalled.
Southwest Airlines confirmed the policy update took effect May 28. Travel + Leisure.
Southwest Airlines explains the policy: “When using a portable charger/powerbank during a flight it must not be in any luggage and should remain visible.”
According to the airline, keeping power banks out of sight and away from items in bags can help ensure that all aircraft are safe. Southwest Airlines’ spokesperson told T+L that “nothing is more valuable to Southwest than its customers and employees safety”.
Southwest has announced that it will be introducing a new airline. USB ports on its aircraft The ports will be USB-A/C in 2023. That means that battery chargers are not always needed.
This policy change coincides with other airlines imposing restrictions on portable batteries and chargers. Malaysia-based AirAsia has announced that portable chargers are banned as of April 1, while Thailand’s Thai Airways implemented a similar ban on March 15th.
There have been recalls on wireless portable power chargers. As an example, the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission published a “replacement advisory” for 429,000 Casely Wireless Portable Power Banks Due to the risk of fire, overheating and igniting.
The agency has published a new alert for 2019. other power bank chargers That were small enough for a key ring.
The airlines have also placed restrictions on batteries. You can, for example. American Airlines restricts passengers When the batteries are less than 100Wh, you can only carry four spares in your bag. Due to the potential danger, any automobile or damaged batteries are not allowed to be checked in or taken on board.
