American Airlines is implementing new restrictions on portable chargers for passengers starting Friday. Customers will be allowed to bring only two power banks on board, which must remain visible to airline personnel during use. When not in use, these chargers must be kept within the passenger’s reach and cannot be stored in overhead bins. This policy change is in response to nearly two dozen lithium battery incidents reported on commercial flights this year. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) noted that almost 100 such incidents occurred in 2025, predominantly involving battery packs and vaping devices. The airline aims to balance passenger needs for device charging with safety protocols, emphasizing that external power banks must adhere to specific watt-hour capacity limits.
Why It Matters
This policy is significant as it highlights the growing concern over battery safety in air travel, especially given the rise in incidents involving lithium batteries. The FAA’s data indicates that battery-related events are becoming increasingly common, prompting airlines to tighten regulations. American Airlines’ move aligns with similar actions taken by other carriers, such as Southwest Airlines, which recently limited customers to one battery pack. These measures are designed to mitigate risks while accommodating the needs of travelers who rely on portable chargers for their electronic devices.
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