Overview
- American Airlines, whose new rule takes effect Friday, will cap each traveler at two portable chargers under 100 watt-hours, require the device to stay visible and within reach, bar storage in overhead bins, and forbid recharging the power bank during flight.
- Southwest now goes further by allowing only one power bank per passenger with similar visibility and no‑overhead rules, reflecting a tightening U.S. trend on lithium battery safety.
- The FAA has logged more than 700 aircraft incidents tied to lithium batteries since 2006, including 97 in 2025, which airlines cite as evidence that fires can start if a battery is damaged or overheats.
- Industry guidance has moved the same way, with ICAO and IATA recommending carry‑on only, a two‑device cap, and no in‑flight recharging to reduce risks from thermal runaway that can produce flames and toxic fumes.
- Rules still differ by carrier, as some European budget airlines require carry‑on only with about a 100Wh limit and protected terminals, while others like Emirates and Lufthansa prohibit using power banks in flight, so passengers should check their airline’s policy before packing.