American Airlines says it will begin restricting the use of portable chargers during flights next month, following crosstown rival Southwest Airlines with a move it says will “support safety on board while ensuring our customers continue to have the ability to charge when on the go.”
The new policy, which takes effect May 1, limits customers to two portable chargers, each of which cannot exceed 100 watt hours, according to a statement the airline shared with The Dallas Morning News. American, which is the dominant carrier at DFW International Airport, will also direct customers to keep their portable chargers visible and within reach during flights. Portable chargers cannot be stored in overhead bins or recharged while on board using the in-seat power that is included on American’s mainline fleet and most of its regional fleet, the airline said.
“We know our customers rely on portable chargers to keep devices powered throughout their journey,” American said in a statement. “These updates allow crew members to respond quickly should an issue arise with the portable charger, align with industry standards and underscore American’s commitment to safety — our top priority.”
American’s policy switch comes after Southwest further cracked down on portable chargers beginning last week, limiting customers to one power bank per person that cannot exceed 100 watt hours. Southwest, Love Field Airport’s dominant carrier, also doesn’t allow portable chargers in checked luggage or overhead bins.