Travelers on Southwest face a new rule as airlines try to reduce the fire risk on flights

""A huge part of the concern here is seeing that number of incidents continue to increase, correlating, of course, to the number of devices that people are bringing on planes," said Jeff Marootian, CEO of UL Standards & Engagement."

"The Federal Aviation Administration reported that more lithium battery incidents are reported every year, hitting 97 in 2025 as everyone carries more rechargeable devices like phones, iPads, laptops, and these portable chargers."

"Marootian noted that his organization hears about two incidents every week and reported a 42% increase in the number of incidents involving portable chargers in 2025."

"One of the worst incidents occurred in January 2025 when a devastating fire broke out aboard an Air Busan plane waiting to take off."

Starting April 20, Southwest Airlines will allow passengers to carry only one portable charger on flights, prohibiting them from being placed in overhead bins or checked luggage. This policy aims to mitigate the risk of lithium battery fires, which have been increasing alongside the number of devices brought on planes. The Federal Aviation Administration reported 97 lithium battery incidents in 2025, with a 42% rise in incidents involving portable chargers. Awareness of these risks is crucial for travelers.

Read at Fast Company