Southwest Airlines to Require Lithium Battery Removal on Wheelchairs
Starting September 25, Southwest Airlines will require passengers traveling with powered wheelchairs and scooters that use removable lithium batteries to take those batteries out before boarding. The new policy follows an August 25 safety alert from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on lithium battery risks.
According to Reuters, Southwest announced on September 12 that passengers must “remove removable lithium batteries from powered wheelchairs and scooters before boarding, citing fire risks.” In an internal note obtained by Reuters, the airline explained, “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. By taking proactive steps now, Southwest will be among the first U.S. carriers to adopt these higher standards.”
The FAA’s safety alert emphasized the hazards of carrying lithium batteries in aircraft passenger compartments. It highlighted the importance of identifying potential ignition sources and implementing risk-mitigation strategies to prevent thermal runaway events—self-sustaining, uncontrolled increases in pressure and temperature. The alert also warned that lithium batteries stored in overhead bins or carry-on luggage may be difficult to access or monitor if an incident occurs.
Lithium batteries are commonly found in cell phones, laptops, portable power banks, e-cigarettes, and hearing aids, CNN reported. By August, the FAA had verified 50 battery-related incidents this year. Southwest’s new policy places it at the forefront of U.S. carriers adopting stricter safety measures for lithium battery-powered mobility devices.
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