Soda cans burst on Southwest flights due to extreme heat

Extreme heat during the summer in the U.S. is causing soda cans to burst on Southwest Airlines flights. The high temperatures at cruising altitude have led to overheated beverages exploding midair, particularly on flights from airports in cities like Phoenix, Las Vegas, and Dallas that have broken temperature records. Southwest Airlines has acknowledged the issue, stating that some cans have warped or burst upon opening due to the heat. The airline is taking measures to address the problem, such as keeping onboard beverages cooler, using digital thermometers to check can temperatures before loading, and instructing flight attendants not to open cans that appear misshapen or too hot. Despite some flight attendants being injured by exploding cans, no incidents involving customers have been reported. Southwest Airlines is unique in its handling of in-flight beverages and is testing solutions like air-conditioned cargo trucks in response to the issue. Climate change is exacerbating challenges for travelers beyond beverage disruptions, impacting weather patterns and flight conditions.