American Airlines limits portable chargers and bans in-flight recharging
Updated
Updated · ZDNet · May 8
American Airlines limits portable chargers and bans in-flight recharging
10 articles · Updated · ZDNet · May 8
Since 1 May, passengers may carry only two power banks, each up to 100 watt-hours, and must keep them visible while charging or within reach.
The devices cannot be stored in overhead bins and the rules also cover some suitcases with built-in lithium-ion battery charging ports.
The airline says the policy addresses lithium-battery fire risks; the National Business Aviation Association says smoke, fire or extreme heat incidents involving such batteries occur more than once a week on US aircraft.
With rising battery incidents, will these new power bank rules actually make flying safer or just more inconvenient for travelers?
As airlines ban in-flight charging, what new battery tech will finally solve the portable power versus safety dilemma?