Southwest announced in 2022 that they would install in-seat power in their 737 fleet. Partnering with Astronics Advanced Electronic Systems, Southwest picked an EmPower solution with one big difference from the options on other domestic airlines.
You’re familiar with the different types of EmPower outlets on planes. Many of them are plugs under the seats; these power sources need a supply box under the seat.
The main problem is that the power system restricts the under-seat space, which is already limited. Depending on your seat location, it could mean that your appropriately sized carry-on bag might not fit.
Southwest went with the UltraLite option for its planes, which doesn’t require an under-seat power supply. Per the Astronics website:
In this system a DC Power Supply (DCPS) is used to provide power to a number of seats in a Zone. These power supplies can be installed under the seat, in the sidewall or overhead above the ceiling. An entire cabin for a typical single-aisle aircraft can be supported with only six power supplies.
Southwest decided they didn’t want to decrease legroom when they installed power plugs.
“Our goal was to ensure that, when we took the leap into the in-seat power market, we provided our Customers with the latest and greatest cabin power system,” said Tony Roach, Vice President Customer Experience and Customer Relations at Southwest Airlines. “Astronics was the clear choice, with their latest-generation system providing USB A and USB C power ports on every seat in the aircraft, in a space-saving system architecture that does not compromise legroom.”
Southwest has started to retrofit its 737 MAX fleet with power outlets and the first one finished is the Hawaii-themed Imua One.
Starting soon, every 737 from Boeing will also include USB power outlets at every seat. 475 Southwest planes will eventually have USB-A and USB-C for all passengers to power their personal electronic devices.
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3 comments
So they have 1 plane with USB power. Whoop de do.
I’m so glad that the decided to put these charging ports in a logical place and not under the seat where it’s less convenient for the passenger. Bravo, SWA!
❤️💛💙
It’s okay for long flights, otherwise most people have a portable power banks, so no need for these outlets to compromise leg rooms.