Why your power bank might not pass airport rules anymore

Airlines in the United States are introducing new restrictions on portable chargers as part of efforts to reduce the risk of lithium battery fires on board aircraft.

The move comes as the number of incidents involving rechargeable batteries continues to rise, driven by the increasing number of personal electronic devices passengers carry while traveling.

One airline, Southwest, has announced that passengers will be limited to carrying a single portable charger on flights.

The device must remain accessible and cannot be stored in checked luggage or overhead bins, allowing crew members to respond quickly if a battery begins to overheat.

Safety concerns around lithium-ion batteries have been growing in recent years. According to US aviation authorities, dozens of incidents are reported annually, including cases where overheating devices have led to smoke or fire.

Experts warn that even a small battery fire can escalate rapidly in the confined environment of an aircraft.

Airlines say the new rules are designed to minimize these risks while maintaining flexibility for passengers.

Industry guidelines have also been evolving, as regulators and safety organizations continue to assess how to manage the increasing presence of battery-powered devices in air travel.