American Airlines has introduced new regulations for portable batteries on flights, affecting passengers who plan to travel with power-hungry devices. The airline joins a growing list of carriers that have tightened restrictions on portable power sources in the air.
According to the new rules, passengers are no longer allowed to bring spare lithium batteries in their carry-on bags. However, they can still pack spare lithium batteries in checked luggage. This change aims to reduce the risk of fires caused by overheating batteries during flights.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has been tracking incidents involving lithium batteries on planes, with over 300 reported cases between 2006 and 2020. The FAA has set guidelines for the safe transportation of lithium batteries, which airlines must follow. American Airlines' new policy aligns with these guidelines, ensuring safer flights for all passengers.
Passengers should note that the new rules do not affect the use of portable power banks during flights. They can still charge their devices using these power banks, but they must be properly prepared and follow airline guidelines to avoid any issues.