Southwest Airlines Enforces New Safety Regulations for Battery-Powered Wheelchairs and Scooters
Southwest Airlines has initiated new safety measures for passengers utilizing battery-powered wheelchairs and scooters, necessitating that lithium batteries be detached and transported in the cabin separately. As of September 25, passengers using mobility devices are required to remove lithium batteries from their wheelchairs or scooters prior to boarding and bring them into the aircraft cabin. The airline has confirmed that these batteries will not be included in passengers’ carry-on or personal item limits.
“Lithium batteries have become one of the most common sources of smoke and fire incidents on aircraft,” stated Dave Hunt, Southwest’s vice president of safety and security, in a communication to employees. The Federal Aviation Administration has documented 55 confirmed lithium battery incidents on U.S. flights up until September 2025.
Starting January 11, 2026, Southwest will also limit battery sizes to 300 watt-hours or less, although a grace period permits larger batteries until that date. This policy is in line with federal guidelines that allow one spare battery up to 300 watt-hours or two batteries with a maximum of 160 watt-hours each.
The new regulations impact less than 0.1% of Southwest’s passengers but have sparked accessibility issues among disability advocates. Some are concerned about the physical difficulties of removing heavy batteries and the potential complications for travelers who heavily depend on powered mobility devices.
Southwest joins other major U.S. carriers including American, Delta, and United in enforcing similar lithium battery restrictions for mobility aids, signifying an industry-wide move towards stricter safety protocols.
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Source: The Hill