A NEW Airline Rule Goes Into Effect on May 1st

There are certain rules you need to follow when you step onto an airplane to fly somewhere (like maybe that Disney World vacation). For example, the rules for carry-on luggage, as well as your personal item, are something that airlines typically enforce.

Do you know the new rules about flying with portable chargers?

You also need to follow rules when you’re actually on that airplane, but a certain restriction will be put into effect very soon with American Airlines. This involves the rules revolving around portable chargers.

Since last year, airlines have been changing rules around portable chargers after several incidents where chargers have overheated and caused fires in the middle of flights. In 2025, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) banned portable chargers, as well as other items with lithium batteries, from checked luggage. This means that portable chargers have to be packed in a carry-on or personal bag.

Orlando International Airport

Well, American Airlines is expanding that rule if you’re flying on one of their planes. According to Good Morning America, starting on May 1st, all American Airlines passengers will be required to keep portable charges visible and within reach while in use. That means if you’re charging your phone, tablet, or other device with a portable charger, it has to remain where cabin crew can see it.

You’ll have to keep your portable charger visible when using it on American Airlines planes

The new policy also limits each passenger to two portable chargers that do not exceed 100 watt-hours each. Portable chargers also cannot be stored in overhead bins and cannot be recharged during your flight. This is to allow the cabin crew to be able to respond quickly to such a device if it should catch fire during a flight.

©American Airlines

American Airlines is not alone in making new rules for portable chargers. Southwest Airlines currently only allows one lithium portable charger per person on its flights. Southwest also requires customers to keep charging devices visible when in use on flights. United Airlines allows devices with lithium batteries under 100-watt hours in checked and carry-on bags, but power banks have to remain in carry-on or personal bags. On May 1st, Delta is setting a limit of two portable chargers per passenger, not to exceed 100 watt-hours each.

Make sure you’re aware of your airline’s policy about portable chargers

If you’re flying, you’ll want to make sure you’re aware of your airline’s current policy regarding portable chargers. This information is usually on an airline’s website, but a quick Google search will also give you details about what you need to know.

We’ll cover more travel news, so stay tuned to DFB for more.

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