Southwest Airlines changing policy for wheelchair users: What to know

(NEXSTAR) – Starting later this month, Southwest Airlines will be enforcing a new policy for passengers who use motorized wheelchairs.

Beginning on Sept. 25, passengers with battery-powered wheelchairs or scooters will be required to remove the lithium batteries from their mobility devices prior to boarding and carry them onto the plane separately. Batteries over 300 watt hours (Wh) will also be banned, but those with larger batteries will have until Jan. 11 to comply with that part of the requirement.

Dave Hunt, the vice president of safety and security at Southwest, said the new policy was adopted to “enhance safety” for passengers and crew.

“Lithium batteries have become one of the most common sources of smoke and fire incidents on aircraft,” Hunt told employees last week, in a message shared to Nexstar by Southwest. “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.”

Southwest will not be treating the batteries themselves as carry-on luggage or a personal item, according to the airline.

The announcement comes a few months after Southwest banned the use of portable charging devices in overhead compartments or closed bags.

That policy was enacted in response to a spate of incidents of excessive heat, smoke or fire caused by lithium battery chargers. (As of Sept. 15, the FAA had recorded 55 verified incidents of lithium battery “events” on U.S. flights in 2025, though none appeared to concern wheelchairs or mobility scooters. A representative for the FAA was not immediately available to comment on incidents related to mobility devices, specifically.)

Southwest said it would begin informing customers of its newest battery policy in mid-September, relaying “what to expect at the airport and onboard.”

“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’s message said. “While this change applies to less than 0.1% of our Customers, we remain committed to supporting each individual who may be affected.”