- Mar 13, 2024
- 8,725
- 36
Southwest Airlines has been making quite a few changes recently. Some have stirred up controversy, like ending free checked bags and introducing seating assignments. Meanwhile, others seem more logical, such as their plane security upgrades.
Speaking of changes, Southwest has now rolled out a policy impacting wheelchair users. Starting on September 25th, passengers with wheelchairs or scooters will need to remove lithium batteries before boarding. Dave Hunt, Southwest’s vice president of safety and security, explained that this aligns with international standards to enhance safety.
Beginning January 11th, 2026, the lithium batteries brought onboard must not exceed 300 watt-hours, although they won't count as carry-on items. This adjustment comes in response to the record number of incidents involving lithium battery fires on flights in 2024.
It'll be interesting to see how people respond to this new rule. Ultimately, these updates seem to target passenger safety, but how do they play out in practice? What are your thoughts on this change by Southwest Airlines? I'd love to hear them!
Speaking of changes, Southwest has now rolled out a policy impacting wheelchair users. Starting on September 25th, passengers with wheelchairs or scooters will need to remove lithium batteries before boarding. Dave Hunt, Southwest’s vice president of safety and security, explained that this aligns with international standards to enhance safety.
Beginning January 11th, 2026, the lithium batteries brought onboard must not exceed 300 watt-hours, although they won't count as carry-on items. This adjustment comes in response to the record number of incidents involving lithium battery fires on flights in 2024.
It'll be interesting to see how people respond to this new rule. Ultimately, these updates seem to target passenger safety, but how do they play out in practice? What are your thoughts on this change by Southwest Airlines? I'd love to hear them!
