Southwest Airlines will restrict passengers to carrying just one portable lithium charger per flight and ban the devices from overhead bins, citing safety concerns over in-flight battery fires. The new rules take effect April 20 and also prohibit charging power banks using in-seat outlets.

The airline said portable chargers must now remain in a passenger’s under-seat carry-on or be kept on their person. “This policy strengthens our ability to contain and mitigate lithium battery incidents, including reducing the risk of battery fires,” Southwest said.

The move follows guidance from the United Nations’ International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), which last month limited passengers to two portable chargers and prohibited in-flight recharging. Airlines such as the Lufthansa Group and countries including South Korea had already imposed similar restrictions following incidents, including a fire on an Air Busan flight in 2025.

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has also raised alarms over lithium batteries in passenger compartments. The FAA reported 97 battery-related incidents last year involving smoke, fire, or extreme heat, up from 89 in 2024.

Southwest said it expects its full fleet to include in-seat power by mid-2027, reducing passengers’ need to rely on portable chargers. The airline urged travelers to comply with the new rules to ensure safety and prevent disruptions during flights.

Passengers are advised to comply with the new rules to ensure safety and avoid disruptions during travel.