Southwest Airlines Imposes New Lithium Battery Guidelines for Travelers with Disabilities
Southwest Airlines has announced a new policy regarding lithium batteries, citing increased incidents and safety concerns as the reason. The airline's vice president of safety and security, Dave Hunt, stated that lithium batteries have become one of the most common sources of smoke and fire incidents on aircraft.
Beginning September 25, 2025, travelers using powered mobility devices will be required to remove their lithium batteries before handing over their devices at baggage check. This policy change is separate from the sneaky carry-on pillow hack incident that occurred in 2025.
The need for extra precautions with lithium batteries is due to the fire risks they pose. Devices powered with lithium batteries have commonly been avoided in checked luggage. Now, passengers must bring the removed lithium batteries into the aircraft cabin with them, keeping them within arm's reach of their owner, as advised by Taylor Garland, spokesperson for the Association of Flight Attendants.
The fire-safety mechanisms for checked baggage are not designed to stop a lithium battery fire. Lithium batteries can reach temperatures as high as 752 degrees Fahrenheit during thermal runaway, a reaction where lithium-ion cells overheat uncontrollably. This rapid and hard-to-extinguish fire poses a significant threat, according to the Association of Flight Attendants.
Starting January 11, 2026, Southwest Airlines will impose a new capacity limit, accepting only lithium batteries with 300 watt-hours or less on planes. Travelers with mobility needs are advised to ensure their device's battery is removable and to check the battery capacity in advance.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is the responsible authority in the United States for the monitoring of lithium-powered devices in airplanes. In 2025, there have been at least 55 lithium-related fire or smoke incidents on planes, as reported by the FAA.
Travelers are encouraged to communicate with Southwest Airlines beforehand to avoid any surprises at the gate. A grace period will be provided until the new capacity limit takes effect. The statement from Taylor Garland was reported by Forbes, while the information about this policy change was reported by People.
Read also:
- Highlighted Achiever at Scripps College: Alyssa Griffin
- Elderly care and heat protection: It's time for policy to step in when care becomes too hot
- Budget-conscious Traveler's Guide to Witnessing the Stunning Aurora Borealis
- "Fond tributes paid to Mikkel Larsen, a respected figure in environmental conservation and carbon management, following his passing"
