‘Fire incidents’ cited by Southwest in new policy applying to wheelchair travelers

Southwest Airlines will change its boarding process, which affects passengers with wheelchairs and scooters.

Dave Hunt, the airline’s vice president of safety and security, said in a recent message to employees that there will be new security requirements for lithium-powered mobile devices.

“From September 25th, customers will be asked to remove the movable ones. Lithium battery Start with their mobile device and bring it into the cabin, the memo said.

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“These batteries won’t count as a customer’s carry-on or personal belonging.”

The new size requirement will be proposed by January 11, 2026, limiting lithium batteries to 300 watt hours or less.

Southwest Airlines has changed the boarding process for mobile device users due to the fire risks associated with lithium batteries. (iStock)

Lithium batteries have become one of the most common sources of smoke Fire incident On the plane, the memo said.

“While these incidents are rare, quick access and visibility are crucial to keeping everyone safe.”

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this Texas airlines It said it will be one of the first operators in the United States to adopt these standards.

A spokesperson for the airline told Fox News Digital that it has begun notifying affected customers Travel plan September 25 and before.

The new Southwest policy requires passengers who have lithium batteries or scooters to be removed before boarding before boarding. (Kevin Carter/Getty Images)

The guide also said: “While this change applies to less than 0.1% of customers, we are committed to supporting everyone who may be affected.”

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Earlier this year, Southwest updated its policy to require portable chargers to remain visible when used during flights.

The new size requirement will be proposed by January 11, 2026, limiting lithium batteries to 300 watt hours or less. (iStock)

According to Southwest Airlines website, passengers may bring 20 spare batteries on the flight.

In July, lithium batteries exploded in passengers’ bags Delta Flying From Atlanta.

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Flights to Fort Lauderdale, Florida were transferred, and the flight attendant extinguished the equipment and declared an emergency, Fox 5 and other media reports.