by Mia Taylor
Last updated: 3:10 PM ET, Mon September 15, 2025
Southwest Airlines is implementing new rules for travelers who use wheelchairs powered by lithium batteries.
The airline will now require passengers who rely on such mobility devices to remove the batteries and carry them into the cabin before their wheelchair is checked by the airline.
The updated policy, which will take effect September 25, was announced via a message that was distributed to Southwest Airlines employees on September 12 by Dave Hunt, the carrier’s vice president for safety and security.
The internal memo, which was shared with TravelPulse by the airline, explains that ”lithium batteries have become one of the most common sources of smoke and fire incidents on aircraft.”
“While these events are rare, quick access and visibility are critical to keeping everyone onboard safe,” Hunt says in the memo. “By taking proactive steps now, Southwest will be among the first U.S. carriers to adopt these higher standards."
Importantly, the memo points out that the batteries will not count as a customer’s carryon or personal item.
Hunt’s memo also explains:
- New size limits will also apply to lithium batteries: each must be 300 watt-hours or less.
- To ease the transition, passengers with batteries larger than 300 watt-hours will have a grace period through Jan. 11, 2026, while all batteries under the 300 watt-hour limit must follow the new process.
- After Jan. 11, devices with batteries above the limit will no longer be accepted for transport.
“We recognize how important mobility devices are to many of our
customers, and this update is designed to prioritize safety without
creating unnecessary barriers to travel,” Hunt added.
The policy change is expected to apply to less than 0.1 percent of Southwest customers, according to the airline.
In
an email to TravelPulse today, a Southwest spokesperson said hat the
new policy change is a continuation of steps the airline has been taking
“to address the risks posed by lithium batteries in enclosed spaces,
such as cargo holds."
Previously, the carrier had announced that
lithium power banks must be visible in the cabin when being used to
recharge devices onboard.
The spokesperson added that the airline is
“notifying affected customers when they purchase tickets for Sept. 25
or after,” of the new policy.
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