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American Airlines Tightens Rules for Portable Chargers Amid Lithium Battery Concerns
Passengers may carry up to two power banks, and American Airlines says the change is meant to help crews respond quickly to battery fires.
- American Airlines announced new restrictions on portable chargers effective Friday, May 1. Passengers are limited to two devices, which must remain visible or accessible during flights and cannot be stored in overhead bins.
- Federal Aviation Administration data highlights safety concerns, with over 700 verified lithium battery incidents on aircraft since 2006. Airlines cite nearly 100 incidents last year and 22 this year to justify implementing stricter protocols.
- The policy covers external power banks and luggage with built-in batteries, each not exceeding 100 watt-hours. Passengers are also prohibited from recharging devices while onboard, ensuring crew can respond quickly to potential issues.
- Southwest Airlines and Delta Air Lines recently tightened their own battery policies, with Delta also limiting customers to two chargers under 100 watt-hours starting Friday. United Airlines similarly requires chargers remain visible and accessible during flights.
- American stated these updates "allow crew members to respond quickly should an issue arise." By keeping portable power packs visible and accessible, the airline balances customer charging needs with fire risk mitigation.
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American Airlines Restricts Number of Portable Chargers
Flying American with a battery pack is about to get more complicated, CBS News reports. Starting Friday, American Airlines will cap passengers at two portable chargers each and require that they stay in sight or within arm's reach during the flight, not in overhead bins. The devices also can't be...
·Miami, United States
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Texas-based airline will impose strict limits on the use and transportation of portable chargers and lithium-ion batteries
More and more airlines and airports have been announcing new provisions welcoming an IATA recommendation on portable chargers.
Coverage Details
Total News Sources18
Leaning Left4Leaning Right3Center4Last UpdatedBias Distribution37% Left, 36% Center
Bias Distribution
- 37% of the sources lean Left, 36% of the sources are Center
37% Left
L 37%
C 36%
R 27%
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